Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia made history at the Cannes Film Festival with the premiere of her new film, “All We Imagine as Light.” The film, which follows the lives of two women navigating careers and love in Mumbai, received an eight-minute-long standing ovation at its debut in the main competition section of the prestigious festival.
Kapadia’s film offers a unique perspective on Mumbai, showcasing the city through the eyes of real immigrants who are the heartbeat of the bustling metropolis. This narrative feature is Kapadia’s first, and it marks the first time in 30 years that an Indian film has played in Cannes’ main competition section.
The reviews for “All We Imagine as Light” have been overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the film for its humanity and emotional depth. The Guardian gave it a five-star review, comparing it to the works of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray.
The story follows two Indian nurses from Kerala living and working in Mumbai, highlighting the challenges they face in a city of 22 million people. The film explores themes of love, work, and the struggle for space in a congested environment.
Kapadia, who comes from a background in documentary filmmaking, brings a unique perspective to the story, drawing on her own experiences as a student and activist. Her previous film, “A Night of Knowing Nothing,” won the top documentary award at Cannes in 2022.
With “All We Imagine as Light,” Kapadia has captured the essence of Mumbai and the real immigrants who call it home. The film’s success at Cannes signals a bright future for Indian cinema on the international stage.
