‘All We Imagine as Light’ Review | A Poetic Look at Indian Women

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As a cinephile with a keen eye for stories that delve deep into the human condition, I found All We Imagine as Light to be a truly captivating film. Director Payal Kapadia masterfully weaves together the lives of two women, Prabha and Anu, in a way that feels both intimate and universal. The film’s slow burn might not appeal to everyone, but for those willing to stick with it, All We Imagine as Light offers a rich tapestry of emotions, dreams, and the struggles we all face in illuminating our own lives.

Unfortunately, “All We Imagine as Light” won’t be up for Best International Feature at next year’s Oscars, as France chose “Emilia Pérez,” a Golden Globe-nominated film, and India opted for “Lost Ladies.” However, this doesn’t diminish the significance of this gripping international drama about contemporary Indian life during awards season. In fact, it deserves special attention following its recent double Golden Globe nominations! Moreover, since it won the prestigious Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, we eagerly anticipate further recognition for writer-director Payal Kapadia’s new feature.

All We Imagine as Light” is a thought-provoking film that could find its place within an Indian Studies or Feminist Film course in the future. It provides a candid, illuminating portrayal of the everyday lives of working-class women in a specific region, yet this educational angle should not detract from your viewing experience. The movie’s harmonious fusion of artful filmmaking, captivating performances, and unforeseen story twists creates a comprehensive cinematic journey. Its themes, while universal, have a particular resonance with women globally, and particularly those in India.

Lovers’ Quarrels in Modern-Day India

In Mumbai, we meet two nurses with societal restrictions impacting them differently. One is Prabha, skillfully portrayed by Kani Kusruti, who juggles her professional life at the city hospital while grappling with the void left by her husband’s absence. He’s working overseas, a marriage that was arranged long ago and evidently lacks the passion and connection desired by the independent-spirited Prabha.

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It’s possible that the fire isn’t as hidden as it seems. A hospital doctor named Manoj (Azees Nedumangad) appears to see beyond her professional facade, offering friendship on the bustling streets during off-hours. However, Prabha is wary of succumbing to temptation.

An Aesthetically Rich Film with Two Interesting Women

It’s noteworthy that Kapadia’s portrayal of the city streets is stunningly documented, much like a tourist photographer would, utilizing lengthy tracking shots to capture the dynamic energy of commerce. As one character poetically narrates in voiceover, “Evenings are when my day begins,” we witness street vendors awakening amidst the throngs of hungry and thirsty patrons filling the narrow sidewalks.

The scene is a vibrant blend of colors and shining lights contrasting the evening, serving as an enchanting setting for the captivating narrative that transcends Prabha’s personal struggles. While Prabha’s story could undoubtedly stand alone as a film centered around this complex and intriguing character in contemporary India, Divya Prabha’s portrayal of the younger Nurse Anu adds depth to it. To others, she may appear as the pesky roommate, but her role in the story is far from annoying.

In simpler terms, the character Anu, in the movie “All We Imagine as Light,” appears to be quite captivating. This becomes evident within the first few scenes, and it’s not hard to understand why Shiaz finds her irresistible. However, Anu’s financial instability at work, her frequent distractions during office hours with colleagues, and her secretive relationship with Shiaz could lead to serious consequences if discovered by her parents or colleagues. In other words, she seems to be a captivating character who, despite her questionable actions, manages to enthrall those around her.

The Three Disruptions

Three distinct instances spark the main narrative and effectively disrupt the usual routine of the two nurses. The first instance occurs when they receive a contemporary rice cooker at their apartment, which seems to have been sent by Prabha’s estranged husband. This eye-catching, vibrant appliance captivates the women, symbolizing how societal advancement is occurring around them, whether they are ready for it or not.

Next, they head to a coastal town where nurse Parvaty (Chhaya Kadam) is assisted by her colleagues in moving into her new home after she loses her old one to the city. Here, the relationship between Prahba and Anu deepens as Anu’s boyfriend, Shiaz, arrives and flirts with her. A crucial event unfolds in this seaside setting, which we won’t reveal here.

Illuminating ‘All We Imagine as Light’

In the heart-pounding climax, I found myself deeply moved by the increasingly ethereal atmosphere of All We Imagine as Light. This was especially true during a surreal sequence that beautifully encapsulated Prabha’s emotional odyssey as she sought solace amidst her separation from her beloved life partner. As the film’s evocative title flickered across the screen, I couldn’t help but reflect on the cruel twists of fate that sometimes define our lives. We are all dealt a hand we didn’t choose, and it’s up to us to find the light in our lives – the radiance we personally seek day by day.

In contrast to several intense and captivating films released in 2024, All We Imagine as Light could appear understated or modest to some viewers, who might perceive it as lacking energy. However, I recommend sticking with this film, as its powerful musical score by Topshe and the late pianist Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou helps maintain its pace. Furthermore, after her previous documentary, Payal Kapadia demonstrates herself to be a promising filmmaker whose future works we eagerly anticipate.

In November, the films “All We Imagine as Light” were jointly released by Janus Films and Sideshow. Currently, you can watch it at the Lincoln Center and Film Forum in New York City, and it’s also being shown elsewhere with wider expansion. To find showtimes and purchase tickets near you, click here.

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2024-12-17 02:34