Indian director Payal Kapadia is in the early stages of developing two more features set in Mumbai, aiming to create a trilogy that will include her debut film, “All We Imagine as Light There Is.” This film has garnered significant international recognition, including nominations for Best Non-English Film and Best Director at the Golden Globes, highlighting Kapadia’s emergence as a notable filmmaker.
Kapadia has started outlining her next project, with plans to shoot in Mumbai. She expresses optimism about creating a trilogy that builds on the themes of her debut work. Despite some setbacks, including criticism from India’s Oscar committee, the film has found success in distribution, especially after its Golden Globe nomination expanded its viewership in India. Following a theatrical release, “All We Imagine as Light” is now available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar with Hindi subtitles.
The film began its award journey by winning the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and has since received recognition from various critic associations, including the New York Film Critics Association and the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. In discussing the film’s reception, Kapadia expressed her determination to focus on the creative process and the importance of independent films. She praised the willingness of some distributors, like Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media, to support diverse filmmaking styles beyond mainstream productions.
Kapadia’s film portrays the lives of three women in Mumbai’s working class, exploring their interconnected experiences. As the narrative unfolds, themes of urban friendship and chosen family resonate across cultural boundaries, addressing relatable issues for both South Asian and Western audiences. Kapadia aims for her work to be immersive, blending documentary feel with dream-like elements to create a magical experience.
As award season progresses, the support from distribution and marketing teams is playing a crucial role in reaching Academy voters. With recognitions from multiple award bodies and an international audience, “All We Imagine as Light” establishes a significant presence in contemporary cinema, reflecting the complexities of modern urban life in India.