All We Imagine As Light is the first film in 30 years to compete in the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival and also the first film ever to win the Grand Prix. Directed by Payal Kapadia, it tells the story of three working-class women living in Mumbai. The narrative is unhurried and the film soon grips viewers tightly. The execution and camerawork are such that one forgets that it’s a film. It almost makes you feel that you are peeping into their lives. A few heartbreaking and funny moments stand out. However, the film gets abstract, which, in my opinion, was needless. Some questions are also left unanswered. The performances, however, are of a tall order. Kani Kusruti speaks a lot through her eyes and is an actor to watch out for. Divya Prabha makes her presence felt. Chhaya Kadam, as expected, rocks the show though her role gives a déjà vu of the one she performed in Laapataa Ladies. All in all, All We Imagine As Light is worth watching for the performances, poignant moments and the honour it has got India.
My rating – *** ½ out of 5!