Homebound in Oscars 2026 shortlist: Neeraj Ghaywan’s film features in International Feature category, Karan Johar reacts

Oscars 2026 international feature shortlist

The 15 films, which were shortlisted and will advance to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category for the 98th Academy Awards, include Argentina’s Belén, Brazil’s The Secret Agent, France’s It Was Just an Accident, Germany’s Sound of Falling, Iraq’s The President’s Cake, Japan’s Kokuho, Jordan’s All That’s Left of You, Norway’s Sentimental Value, Palestine’s Palestine 36, South Korea’s No Other Choice, Spain’s Sirât, Switzerland’s Late Shift, Taiwan’s Left-Handed Girl and Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab. The voters who opt in for this category will have to watch all 15 films before making their choice.

Homebound’s journey

After its premiere under the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, Homebound went on to enjoy global acclaim, apart from being selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars.

Written and directed by Ghaywan, the film which is inspired by a true incident, revolves around childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa). Apart from their deep bond, they share a dream of joining the police force and leading a better life. However, as they inch closer to their dream, mounting desperation and circumstances threatens the bond that holds them together.

Homebound, which won the second runner-up in the International People’s Choice Awards at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), has Oscar winner Martin Scorsese as its executive producer.

Oscar shortlist

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Tuesday announced shortlists in Animated Short Film, Casting, Cinematography, Documentary Feature Film, Documentary Short Film, International Feature Film, Live Action Short Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Sound and Visual Effects. This year also marks the debut of two new shortlist categories: achievement in casting and best cinematography.

What happens now?

In the international feature category, 15 films in the category will come down to 5 final nominees that will be announced on January 22. 2026. The 98th Oscar ceremony will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien and will take place on March 15 next year.