Indian cinema is often synonymous with Bollywood’s song-and-dance spectacles, but the art-house film All We Imagine as Light is breaking barriers. This multi-language film, set in Mumbai, explores the lives of three women navigating loneliness, love, and freedom in the bustling metropolis. Directed by Payal Kapadia, the film has received critical acclaim and international recognition, including several prestigious nominations and awards.
International Accolades and Nominations
All We Imagine as Light has won multiple international awards this year, including the Grand Prix at Cannes. It also made history as the first Indian film to be nominated for Best Director at the Golden Globes. Additionally, it has been nominated for Best Picture in the non-English category, with the awards set to be presented on January 5.
The film has achieved global success, earning more than $2 million at the box office. It is also in contention for Academy Awards in the Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay categories. However, it was not selected as India’s official entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the Oscars.
Director’s Vision and Challenges
For Kapadia, 38, this debut film was a labor of love, conceived in a hospital waiting room and completed after eight years. She shared her joy about the film’s positive reception in India, where independent films often struggle to find screens.
A Unique Story Set in Mumbai
The film portrays the lives of three immigrant women in Mumbai, capturing the city’s contradictions. “While life can be tough here, it gives people a sense of freedom as well,” said Kapadia.
Former US President Barack Obama included All We Imagine as Light in his favorite films of the year, further elevating its global prestige.
