What is "Homebound" about?

"Homebound" is a film that follows two friends, one Dalit and the other Muslim, as they navigate their country as migrant laborers during the pandemic, testing their friendship while pursuing dignity and belonging.

Who is Neeraj Ghaywan?

Neeraj Ghaywan is the director of "Homebound," India's submission for the Academy Awards' international feature category. He has a close connection with French cinema icon Melita Toscan Du Plantier, who produced his previous film "Masaan" and co-produced "Homebound."

How did Martin Scorsese get involved with "Homebound"?

Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese has been involved with the making of "Homebound" for the past three years, providing script notes and mentoring Ghaywan. Scorsese expressed his satisfaction with the final product, praising its universal themes of migration and dignity.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Scorsese Mentors Rising Indian Director in Intimate Conversation

Scorsese Mentors Rising Indian Director in Intimate Conversation

14 Nov

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Summary

Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese provided script notes for "Homebound"
Director Neeraj Ghaywan calls Scorsese his "Cinema Fairy Godmother"
Screening drew notable supporters including Mira Nair and Padma Lakshmi

Scorsese Mentors Rising Indian Director in Intimate Conversation

On November 14, 2025, Variety unveiled a video of a deeply personal conversation between executive producer Martin Scorsese and director Neeraj Ghaywan following a New York screening of "Homebound," India's submission for the Academy Awards' international feature category.

The intimate discussion revealed Scorsese's three-year involvement with the project, which began during his work on "Killers of the Flower Moon." Ghaywan, who calls Scorsese his "Cinema Fairy Godmother," spoke extensively with the legendary filmmaker about their shared passion for cinema and their connection through French cinema icon Melita Toscan Du Plantier, who produced Ghaywan's previous film "Masaan" and co-produced "Homebound."