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News India Live, Digital Desk: Indian film director Payal Kapadia created history when his film ‘All We Imagine as Light’ received a place in the Main Competition section of the Cannes Film Festival and 8 minute long standing ovation Got (standing respect). It was the first Indian film in 30 years to achieve this feat, but the wait is still not over for Indian audiences.
1. Why is this film special? (The Plot)
The film tells the story of two Mumbai-based nurses, Prabha and Anu, who are searching for their identity amidst their busy lives and relationships.
achievement: It won the prestigious award in Cannes. ‘Grand Prix’ Won the award, which is the second highest honor after the ‘Palme d’Or’.
Review: International critics have described it as “poetic” and a “beautiful portrayal of human emotions”.
2. Reasons for not releasing in India (Challenges in India)
Despite such huge success, there are some issues regarding its release in India:
| challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| lack of distribution | Such ‘art-house’ films do not find major distributors in India, as they prioritize commercial success (masala films). |
| Censor Board (CBFC) | Internationally acclaimed films sometimes have to face the scissors of the Indian censor board, with which directors do not want to compromise. |
| Attitude of OTT platforms | Major streaming platforms often only buy films starring big Bollywood stars, leaving less space for independent films. |
3. Struggle of ‘Art Cinema’
This is not the first time this has happened with an Indian film. Many films have been in this list even before ‘All We Imagine as Light’:
‘The Disciple’: It took a long time to release after winning the award in Venice.
Films made on the lines of ‘Moonlight’: Which garners accolades in foreign countries, but remains confined to film festivals only in the home country.
4. Will the wait end in 2026?
According to the latest reports, Payal Kapadia and her team are now in talks with some independent distributors and for a limited theatrical release. It is hoped that mid 2026 Till now it can be seen in some selected cities of India and later on premium OTT platforms.
changing preferences of audience
Today’s Indian audience is liking films like ‘Kantara’ and ’12th Fail’, which are based on grassroots stories. In such a situation, the non-release of a film like ‘All We Imagine as Light’ is a big loss for Indian cinema lovers. Are our cinema halls only for blockbusters, or is there room for art too?