All We Imagine as Light (2024)

From the beginning, the film has an aroma of sadness and delicacy, but at the same time it flows with infinite beauty.

The camera follows the protagonists in search of their own freedom and does so without ever judging them.

Although all of them have a certain financial autonomy, still their decisions in love or professional matters are subordinated to family desires.

It also shows us the different social classes, especially the precariousness of the workers who come from the villages, to a city, which practically eats you day by day.

The film follows the lives of Prabha and Anu, two women who share a physical and emotional space, but whose personal journeys take different paths.

Prabha, a nurse trapped in a fractured marriage, faces emotional chaos when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband.

This event acts as a catalyst for her to reevaluate her life and her pent-up emotions.

On the other hand, Anu struggles to find a space in the city where she can be intimate with her partner, facing the challenges of a society that limits her freedom and privacy.

Their journey culminates in a beach getaway, which symbolizes a momentary respite in their search for connection and stability.

Payal Kapadia imprints his contemplative style on this story, capturing the characters' inner emotions through direction that prioritizes details and everyday moments.

The scenes in the enclosed spaces of Bombay reflect the oppression and disorder of the protagonists' lives, while the exteriors, especially the beach scenes, offer a liberating and hopeful contrast.

Kani Kusruti delivers a moving performance as Prabha, subtly capturing the inner struggle of a woman grappling with the weight of the past and the uncertainty of the future.

Her performance balances fragility and strength, making the viewer feel deeply connected to her emotional journey.

The cinematography captures the duality of Bombay, showing both its chaotic beauty and oppressive limitations.

The tight shots in the crowded spaces reflect the lack of privacy and the constant pressure the protagonists face, while the beach shots offer visual and emotional respite.

It is an intimate drama that stands out for its sincere performances and delicate direction.