Payal Kapadia’s film All We Imagine As Light may have missed an Oscar nomination, but it has already established itself as a significant achievement in Indian cinema. The announcement of the final Oscar 2025 nominations brought both excitement and disappointment for film enthusiasts. While several international films secured their spots, India’s official entry failed to make the cut. However, the absence of an Oscar nod does not take away from the film’s extraordinary journey and the impact it has had on audiences and critics worldwide.
The past year has been monumental for Indian cinema, with Telugu films such as Pushpa 2: The Rule and Kalki 2898 AD dominating the box office and Malayalam cinema gaining widespread recognition for its compelling storytelling. In contrast, Hindi cinema struggled to maintain consistency, while Tamil films saw mixed fortunes. Amid this landscape, Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light emerged as a beacon of artistic excellence, receiving critical acclaim across global film festivals and earning accolades that reaffirm India’s position in the international arena.
The film tells a deeply personal and universal story, blending poignant storytelling with a visual style that resonates on a profound level. Critics praised its delicate handling of complex emotions and its ability to capture the nuances of everyday life with authenticity. Many believed it stood a strong chance of securing an Oscar nomination, given its successful run at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, where it received a standing ovation and won critical praise for its subtle yet powerful narrative.
Despite missing out on an Oscar, All We Imagine As Light remains a source of immense pride for India. It has sparked conversations about the evolving landscape of Indian cinema and how filmmakers are pushing creative boundaries beyond commercial formulas. Kapadia’s approach to storytelling, rooted in realism and emotional depth, has won her a dedicated following both within the country and internationally.
Kapadia’s journey to this point has been nothing short of inspiring. As a filmmaker who has often chosen unconventional narratives and experimental styles, she has continuously challenged industry norms. Her previous works hinted at her potential, but it is with this film that she has firmly established herself as a filmmaker of global repute. Audiences and critics alike have resonated with her ability to depict the ordinary in an extraordinary way, making everyday life feel cinematic and deeply moving.
The disappointment of the Oscar snub is undeniable, but it also highlights the unpredictability of the awards process. Many exceptional films have been overlooked in the past, only to be celebrated years later as masterpieces. For Kapadia, the journey does not end here. The recognition and acclaim the film has received will likely open new doors, encouraging more filmmakers to explore unconventional stories with confidence and authenticity.
Film experts believe that India’s evolving presence in global cinema will continue to grow, with more filmmakers like Kapadia bringing fresh perspectives and unique storytelling styles. The impact of All We Imagine As Light extends beyond awards, as it has set a precedent for future filmmakers to aim for artistic excellence while staying true to their roots.
Social media has been abuzz with reactions from fans and industry insiders, many expressing their disappointment over the Oscar miss but also celebrating the film’s achievements. Some argue that recognition at international festivals holds as much significance as an Oscar nod, while others feel that Indian cinema needs better promotion strategies to secure a stronger presence in the global awards circuit.
Regardless of the Oscar outcome, All We Imagine As Light will be remembered as a milestone in Indian cinema. It represents the evolving taste of audiences and the growing appetite for stories that are deeply personal yet universally relatable. Kapadia’s work has already inspired a new generation of filmmakers to believe that Indian stories can find a place on the global stage, whether or not they receive formal recognition from the Academy.
The absence of All We Imagine As Light from the Oscar nominations also brings attention to the larger conversation about how Indian films are positioned in the global awards circuit. Despite the increasing recognition of Indian cinema at prestigious festivals, the road to the Oscars remains a challenging one. The selection process, voting patterns, and the visibility of films within the Academy continue to play a crucial role in determining nominations. Many believe that Indian filmmakers must focus not only on making high-quality content but also on aggressive international marketing and strategic campaigning to improve their chances.
Kapadia’s film, with its quiet yet profound narrative, challenges conventional notions of Indian cinema often associated with grandeur and spectacle. It offers an introspective look at relationships, solitude, and self-discovery, wrapped in a cinematic language that resonates with contemporary global audiences. This shift towards nuanced storytelling signals a growing acceptance of indie films within mainstream conversations, creating a new wave of interest in Indian cinema beyond the usual commercial blockbusters.
Industry veterans have lauded the film’s thematic richness and its ability to strike a chord without relying on loud dramatics or formulaic storytelling. Many believe that such films help reshape the perception of Indian cinema, proving that it is not just about song-and-dance routines but also about deep, reflective storytelling that can hold its own against global cinema. Kapadia’s success, even without an Oscar nomination, stands as proof that Indian cinema is evolving in the right direction.
The film’s journey has also brought renewed focus on the role of female filmmakers in Indian cinema. Kapadia’s success is a significant milestone in a largely male-dominated industry, inspiring more women to pursue their vision and bring diverse narratives to the forefront. Her storytelling lens, rooted in personal experiences and cultural introspection, brings fresh perspectives that add to the diversity of Indian cinema on the world stage.
Looking ahead, All We Imagine As Light will likely continue its successful festival run, with screenings and discussions planned across various international platforms. Its impact will extend far beyond the awards season, serving as a benchmark for independent Indian cinema and a source of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers. Kapadia’s work has reinforced the belief that authentic stories, told with sincerity and artistic vision, can transcend geographical boundaries and connect with audiences worldwide.