“All We Imagine as Light,” a captivating cinematic experience, is directed by Payal Kapadia. It follows the lives of three women in Mumbai, exploring themes of loneliness, love, and the pursuit of personal freedom. This quiet masterpiece captures the essence of urban life in one of the world’s most bustling cities.
The story revolves around Prabha, a middle-aged nurse who leads a life marked by solitude and routine. Her estranged husband, who moved to Germany years ago, remains a distant memory, symbolized by a mysterious rice cooker that arrives at her doorstep2. Anu, Prabha’s younger roommate, is a spirited young woman navigating the complexities of a secret relationship with her Muslim boyfriend, Shiaz. The third woman, Parvati, a widow and cook at the hospital, faces eviction but handles the news with remarkable resilience
Kapadia’s direction is both pragmatic and playful, drawing inspiration from Wong Kar-wai’s films. Mumbai is portrayed as a city of transplants and impermanence. Ranabir Das’s cinematography captures the city’s nocturnal beauty and intimate moments. The soundtrack, featuring a snippet of ethereal piano jazz by Ethiopian musician Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou, enhances the film’s hypnotic atmosphere.
The film’s strength lies in its subtle storytelling and the emotional depth of its characters. Prabha’s journey of self-discovery, Anu’s quest for happiness, and Parvati’s resilience against adversity are portrayed with a delicate touch that resonates deeply with the audience. The film’s evocative title perfectly encapsulates the experience of watching it, as the characters navigate their way through the darkness, seeking a light that may not always be visible but can be imagined.
“All We Imagine as Light” is a testament to the power of cinema to illuminate the human experience, offering a luminous slice of Mumbai life that is both poignant and uplifting. It is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of life in a city that never sleeps.
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