Excitement is mounting within the Indian film industry and among cinema enthusiasts nationwide as the much-acclaimed “All We Imagine As Light” readies for its Indian release. Having achieved the prestigious Grand Prix award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, this cinematic gem is set to make its Indian debut in November. Its premiere at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival will mark the film’s inaugural screening in the country, where it has been designated as the event’s opening film.
This Malayalam-Hindi work of art, directed by the talented Payal Kapadia, made its initial appearance in a carefully curated selection of screens in Kerala on September 21. The film is presented by Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media, aiming to expand the reach of this exceptional narrative. Notably, it’s an official India-France co-production, uniting the resources and creativity of Chalk and Cheese Films and Another Birth from India, along with petit chaos from France. The film extended its geographical reach by arriving in theaters across France on October 2.
Director Payal Kapadia, celebrated for being the first Indian filmmaker to earn the prestigious Grand Prix at Cannes, has expressed her eagerness for the film’s wider distribution across India. “I am so excited for the India release this November! I hope that many people go to watch it. It is such a wonderful feeling for any filmmaker,” she conveyed in her statement.
The narrative is propelled by the performances of leading actors Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha. “All We Imagine As Light,” known as “Prabhayay Ninachathellam” in Malayalam, delves into the lives of two Kerala nurses, Prabha and Anu, who share an apartment in Mumbai. Their story embodies themes of companionship and resilience against the urban backdrop.
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Rana Daggubati, whose production house has secured exclusive distribution rights within India, is equally enthusiastic about introducing the film to a broader audience through the MAMI festival. “Our partnership with this incredible film is a step forward in our efforts to bring compelling and moving stories from different parts of the country to audiences everywhere,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of such cinematic ventures.
The MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, scheduled to kick off on October 18, will showcase this esteemed film, underscoring the festival’s commitment to independent and diverse cinema. Interim festival director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur expressed his excitement, stating, “‘All We Imagine As Light’ will always be remembered as a film that won the Grand Prix at Cannes, but it is also an independent film that faced many challenges, especially in finding funding, before it debuted in competition at Cannes and won accolades all over the world. As we begin a new phase in MAMI, this film embodies the kind of cinema that MAMI would like to showcase and provide a platform that will celebrate and enable independent cinema of every kind to reach a wider audience.”
Running until October 24, the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival will treat audiences to a stunning array of over 110 films in more than 50 languages, representative of various cinematic genres. This immersive experience promises to enchant viewers with a rich tapestry of storytelling from around the globe.
A sense of honor envelops Kapadia regarding her film’s inclusion in this significant festival, acknowledging MAMI as a pivotal influence in her cinematic education. “When I was a student in Mumbai, I got a glimpse into world cinema and cinema from other parts of the country because of MAMI. I am happy that people in Mumbai would be able to see the film here first,” she warmly shared in a statement.
In addition to Kusruti and Prabha, the film features Chhaya Kadam, rounding out the talent that breathes life into this poignant narrative. “All We Imagine As Light” not only stands as a testament to Indian cinematic prowess but also marks a notable milestone as the first Indian film in 30 years to enter Cannes’ coveted main competition. Cinema lovers and critics alike await its Indian release, eager to experience the storytelling excellence that has captured international acclaim.
