Payal Kapadia’s film “All We Imagine as Light” has taken the Cannes Film Festival by storm, positioning itself as a strong contender for the prestigious Palme d’Or award. This marks a historic moment for Indian cinema, as no female director from the country has ever competed for the top prize at Cannes.
The film, which follows the journey of three women navigating their relationships with the city of Mumbai, has garnered universal acclaim from critics at the festival. Described as “universal and emotional enough to hypnotize anyone who has been alone in a city,” by BBC, and praised for its poetic storytelling by Variety and The Guardian, “All We Imagine as Light” has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
Director Payal Kapadia, along with her cast and crew, addressed the press at the festival, where she shared the inspiration behind the film’s title. “The title is also about hope,” Kapadia explained. “When things are looking bleak and you don’t know if there is a way out, you imagine that there might be a light somewhere down the line.”
The film not only explores the bustling streets of Mumbai but also delves into the serenity of a seaside village, showcasing a range of contrasting colors, tones, and moods. As “All We Imagine as Light” inches closer to the Palme d’Or, it stands as a testament to Kapadia’s unique storytelling and her ability to blend humanism with masterful craftsmanship.
With critics heaping praise on the film and audiences eagerly anticipating its release, “All We Imagine as Light” is poised to make history for Indian cinema at Cannes.