The Cannes Grand Prix-winning film, All We Imagine as Light, made its UK debut on 18 October at the 68 BFI London Film Festival. Directed by Mumbai-based filmmaker Payal Kapadia, the film was showcased as a Special Presentation in association with Sight and Sound at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre.
Critics have lauded the film, with Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian calling it “a glorious film,” and Tim Robey from The Telegraph describing it as “a gorgeous achievement in every way.” Jessica Kiang of Variety praised it for its stunning depiction of “the lonesome romance of Mumbai after dark.”
The red carpet was a star-studded affair, featuring lead actress Kani Kusruti alongside prominent attendees such as Radhika Apte, Tom Stourton, Armeena Khan, and Anita Rani, among others.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mumbai, All We Imagine as Light explores the intricacies of female friendship and has already created a stir on the international stage. It notably marks a historic achievement for Kapadia as the first female Indian filmmaker to compete in Cannes’ Official Competition in three decades.
This visually arresting film is produced as a collaboration among France, India, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, the film was brought to life with support from various European development funds, including Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals grant and the Cannes Cinéfondation Residency.
All We Imagine as Light is set for release in UK and Irish cinemas on 29 November, 2024.
