Cannes 2024: India’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ Marks First Indian Entry In Competition In Three Decades

India has captivated audiences at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival, with Thursday marking yet another milestone moment. Filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ graced the prestigious film gala, marking the first Indian entry in competition at Cannes in three decades.

The fiction feature delves into the lives of two nurses, portrayed by Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha, hailing from Kerala, southern India, who find themselves as roommates in the bustling city of Mumbai. Their journey unfolds against the backdrop of a transformative trip to a beach town, where their desires find expression amidst a mystical forest.

Starring Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam, and Hridhu Haroon in pivotal roles, the film received widespread acclaim, with the cast commanding the iconic red carpet with finesse. The screening culminated in an extraordinary eight-minute standing ovation, a testament to the film’s impact and resonance with the audience at this year’s festival.

Images shared on the official Instagram account of the Cannes Film Festival captured the jubilant moments of the ‘All We Imagine as Light’ team, radiating joy amidst the French shutterbugs and even indulging in some impromptu dancing on the red carpet.

At its core, ‘All We Imagine as Light’ explores themes of personal growth and emancipation, as articulated by director Payal Kapadia in an interview with Variety. Reflecting on the film’s narrative, Kapadia delved into the complexities of female autonomy and financial independence in the context of urban life in Mumbai. As a graduate of the esteemed Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Kapadia’s directorial prowess shines through in this poignant portrayal of human experiences, resonating with audiences both locally and on the global stage at Cannes 2024.