In a surprising yet uplifting turn of events, Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia has showcased unwavering support for Kiran Rao’s film ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ which was chosen as India’s official entry for the Oscars. Kapadia’s own film, ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ was notably absent from the nomination list, despite its stellar performance on the international stage and recognition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the prestigious Grand Prix prize.
Reflecting on the Oscar snub, Kapadia expressed genuine elation for ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ without a hint of resentment. “Laapataa Ladies is a great film,” she said with a smile when questioned about her film not being selected. “I was just happy. It’s a wonderful film. All of us saw it and loved it. I loved Kiran Rao’s previous film as well. I am just happy that it’s selected and it’s the film that’s going to be there.”
As questions arose about whether she would independently pursue an Oscar campaign for her film, Kapadia responded with a spirit of optimism and anticipation. “It’s going to release in America on November 15. The distribution will decide that once it releases, what’s the response. We will see,” she stated at an event dedicated to announcing the film’s release date in India. Fans can eagerly anticipate its arrival in Indian cinemas on November 22.
The event was graced by Telugu star and producer Rana Daggubati, who plays a pivotal role in the film’s distribution. Kapadia extended her gratitude towards Daggubati and his team, acknowledging their insight into the unique distribution needs of an independent film like ‘All We Imagine As Light.’ “They had a very planned distribution approach, which understood what the film could do in different regions and in the Kerala film industry. The understanding of it that it’s not a film that can just be released nationwide without a thought to kind of film it is. They were very sensitive to that.
. I respected that outlook to distribution.”
Receiving India’s first-ever Grand Prix prize is not just a personal victory for Kapadia but a landmark moment for the country’s independent filmmaking sector. Kapadia’s film is not only a beacon of artistic accomplishment but is also spotlighting the need for more robust support systems for indie storytellers in India.
“As indie filmmakers, the challenge is at every step. Even if you get funding from India completely, the next step is distribution, where does it get shown? So indie filmmakers are struggling at every step of the way,” Kapadia elucidated. “The co-productions are the ones that go to the festival so they are printed in the news. But there are many films that are made locally and they get released in their regions but don’t get a nationwide release.”
In her statements, Kapadia pointed out the challenges artists like herself face and the frequent lack of resources that small-scale productions encounter. “Until a few years ago, we used to get grants. There was also distribution. Whether they were shown on Doordarshan, we could watch films like that. We need to have an access to funding or industries could meet each other because to make independent films, it doesn’t cost that much,” she explained passionately. “If there’s a way we can communicate with each other and no matter how small or big a film is, it can get financed, wouldn’t that be nice? The more films there are, the more diversity there is. It makes for a thriving film industry.”
This resonating support brings hope that more collaborative efforts within India’s film industry can lead to greater visibility and funding for unique stories. ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ which explores the narrative of three women in Mumbai, continues to thrive as a story with resonance, touching on themes of mystery and personal transformation.
“All We Imagine As Light” is set to light up cinemas in India soon, marking a significant milestone in the world of Indian cinema and indie film productions worldwide. As audiences gear up to experience this cinematic journey, Kapadia’s outlook remains one of positivity and enthusiasm for the future of indie films in India.
