Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia has etched her name in the annals of Cannes Film Festival history with her latest film, All We Imagine As Light. Premiering on Thursday, the film not only impressed international audiences but also garnered one of the longest-standing ovations of this year’s festival, lasting a full eight minutes.
Historical Milestone for Indian Cinema
This remarkable reception is a testament to the film’s profound impact and marks a significant milestone as All We Imagine As Light becomes the first Indian film in 30 years to compete for the prestigious Palme d’Or. Moreover, Kapadia makes history as the first female Indian director to have a film in competition at Cannes.
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Payal Kapadia’s Reflections
Reflecting on her achievement, Kapadia expressed her pride and excitement in an interview with Deadline. “India is a country that makes a lot of good films. Not just Bollywood but every state has its industry and there are absolutely brilliant filmmakers. I hope that after this we won’t have to wait another 30 years,” she said.
Kapadia added, “I’m excited and really we’re just happy that our film got selected. We didn’t expect it and it’s an honor because there are so many filmmakers in the section that I really admire.“
Red Carpet Celebrations
Before the premiere, the film’s cast and crew lit up the red carpet with their infectious energy. They danced their way up the steps of the Palais, striking joyful poses and capturing the attention of onlookers. The ensemble cast includes Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam, and Hridhu Haroon, all of whom were visibly ecstatic.
Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ isn’t just a film; it’s an illuminating journey that transcends the screen, leaving audiences spellbound and ignited with its brilliance.
Early Reviews
Early reviews of All We Imagine As Light have been overwhelmingly positive. IndieWire‘s Sophie Monk-Kaufman described the film as “gorgeous and absorbing,” praising its portrayal of everyday moments with a sensuality that is often overlooked. The Guardian hailed it as a “dreamlike and gentle modern Mumbai tale,” while Variety lauded it as a “glowing portrait of urban connection and unexpected sisterhood.“
About the Film
The film, an Indo-French production, follows the life of Prabha (played by Kani Kusruti), a nurse who receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. Her roommate and friend, Anu (played by Divya Prabha), seeks a quiet spot with her lover, leading the two women on a road trip to a beach town where they explore their dreams and desires.
Kapadia’s success at Cannes underscores the rich diversity and talent within Indian cinema, extending beyond the Bollywood mainstream. As the festival continues, all eyes will be on All We Imagine As Light and its journey in the competition.
