Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine as Light’ Wins Grand Prix Award at Cannes 2024
In a historic moment at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s mesmerizing drama “All We Imagine as Light” clinched the prestigious Grand Prix award. This accolade, second only to the Palme d’Or, was bestowed upon Kapadia during the festival’s closing ceremony, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Kapadia’s feature directorial debut, which made its debut at the festival and garnered rave reviews from international critics, has already etched its name in the annals of Indian cinema history. It became the first Indian film in three decades and the first ever by an Indian female director to be featured in the main competition at Cannes.
The film, a Malayalam-Hindi production, follows the story of Prabha, a nurse whose life takes a tumultuous turn when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. Alongside her roommate Anu, the two embark on a road trip to a beach town where their dreams unfold amidst a mystical forest.
Receiving an eight-minute standing ovation from the audience, “All We Imagine as Light” has captivated viewers and critics alike with its poignant storytelling and visual aesthetics. Kapadia, an alumna of the Film & Television Institute of India, has solidified her position as a visionary filmmaker with this groundbreaking work.
The jury, led by filmmaker Greta Gerwig and comprising esteemed personalities from the global film industry, recognized Kapadia’s directorial prowess and the film’s profound impact. “All We Imagine as Light” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the artistry of Indian cinema on the world stage.