Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa starrer Homebound will be the closing film at the International Film Festival of Melbourne 2025. Helmed by Masaan (2015) director Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, the film had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. Veteran Hollywood filmmaker Martin Scorsese also serves as the executive producer on the film.
As per a press release, “The film follows two childhood friends from northern India who aspire to become police officers to escape their circumstances. But as their dream starts to become a reality, their friendship begins to falter.”
Speaking about it, Neeraj said in a statement, “Homebound explores the fragile threads of friendship, ambition, and the emotional cost of breaking free to come into your own. IFFM has long championed meaningful cinema, and I’m very excited that Homebound is part of that legacy as their closing film.”
Karan added, “At its core, Homebound is a story of aspiration, identity, and the quiet heartbreak that comes with change. Neeraj has crafted a hauntingly beautiful film, and I’m immensely proud that Dharma Productions could back this vision. To showcase it as the closing film at IFFM, a festival that celebrates bold and relevant storytelling, is the perfect next step in its journey.”
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said, "We’re proud to have Homebound close IFFM 2025. Neeraj Ghaywan’s storytelling has always spoken to truth and empathy, and with stellar performances by Ishaan, Vishal and Janhvi, the film promises to leave a lasting impact. IFFM is thrilled to present this cinematic gem to Australian audiences.”
IFFM 2025 will run from August 14 to 24 across Melbourne, featuring a line-up of screenings, red carpet events, industry panels and the IFFM Awards.