Filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s celebrated feature film ‘All We Imagine As Light’ is poised to make its digital debut on Disney+ Hotstar on January 3, 2025.
The announcement has created a buzz among cinephiles, eagerly anticipating the film’s wider release after its limited theatrical run in September. Known for its profound storytelling and emotional depth, the Malayalam-Hindi film has garnered international acclaim, becoming a beacon of Indian cinema on the global stage.
Distributed in Indian cinemas by ‘Baahubali’ star Rana Daggubati, the film has already etched its name in history as the first Indian movie to win the prestigious Grand Prix award at Cannes earlier this year. It has also been a strong contender in award circuits, with nominations at the Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language and Best Direction, accolades from the New York Film Critics Circle, and a win at the Gotham Awards for Best International Film.
Kapadia expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming reception the film has received globally. “After a successful theatrical run, I am thrilled that All We Imagine As Light will now reach a larger audience through Disney+ Hotstar. Sharing this story with the world has been a deeply fulfilling experience,” she said in a statement.
Rohan Lavsi, Head of Hindi Movies Entertainment at JioStar, described the film as a powerful narrative celebrating Indian talent and resilience. “This masterpiece by Payal Kapadia delves into universal themes of love, identity, and human spirit. Its stellar direction and heartfelt performances make it an emotionally charged cinematic gem,” Lavsi remarked.
The film weaves a poignant tale of two Malayali nurses in Mumbai, Prabha (played by Kani Kusruti) and Anu (portrayed by Divya Prabha). Prabha, a woman grappling with her yearning for an absent husband, finds solace in her friendship with Anu, who is entangled in a forbidden love affair. Together, they navigate the challenges of city life, exploring themes of self-discovery, love, and identity. Chhaya Kadam also plays a pivotal role in the narrative, adding emotional depth to the storyline.
Kusruti, who brings Prabha to life on screen, shared her enthusiasm about the film’s digital release. “Portraying Prabha’s quiet transformation and inner strength was a deeply personal journey for me. Working with Payal was an enriching experience, as she nurtures her cast to delve deeply into their characters,” she said.
Divya Prabha, who plays the free-spirited Anu, described the role as a blend of thrill and challenge. “Anu’s journey of living in the moment and embracing love without boundaries was as liberating for me as it is for the character. Payal’s direction gave me the freedom to explore every nuance of Anu’s personality,” she said.
Chhaya Kadam, who plays Parvaty, added, “The film highlights the silent strength and resilience of women, which made being part of this story immensely rewarding.”
As ‘All We Imagine As Light’ prepares for its OTT release, audiences are eager to rediscover the film’s intricate storytelling, nuanced performances, and universal themes. This landmark work promises to continue its journey of touching hearts and inspiring viewers on Disney+ Hotstar.