Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s film All We Imagine As Light has won the Best International Feature award at the prestigious New York Film Critics Circle (NYFCC) Awards. This achievement comes after the film faced a surprising snub at the Golden Globe Awards, where it was nominated for Best Director (Motion Picture) and Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language but ultimately lost out to other contenders.
Kapadia, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), made her directorial debut with All We Imagine As Light, which has been praised for its emotional depth and unique storytelling. The film also won the Grand Prix award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, which added to its growing acclaim. At the NYFCC event, Kapadia shared her excitement, revealing that the celebrated actress Jodie Foster had watched the film not once but twice, showcasing the global reach and appeal of her work.
Despite the disappointment at the Golden Globes, where All We Imagine As Light lost to Jacques Audiard’s French musical crime comedy Emilia Pérez, the recognition at the NYFCC has reaffirmed the exceptional quality of the film and Kapadia’s impressive directorial skills. The NYFCC’s recognition solidifies her standing in the international film community and highlights the increasing presence of Indian cinema on the world stage.
This victory at the NYFCC not only underscores the talent of Kapadia but also celebrates the global resonance of Indian films, which continue to break barriers and earn well-deserved international attention. All We Imagine As Light is a testament to the power of storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries, reflecting the universal themes of human experience that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Kapadia’s success, especially after the Golden Globe disappointment, is a clear indicator that recognition at film festivals and critics’ awards can be just as impactful, if not more so, than mainstream accolades. The NYFCC win highlights the film’s artistry and the significance of its message, positioning Kapadia as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary world cinema.
For Payal Kapadia, this is just the beginning of a promising career, and with more projects on the horizon, the future looks bright for this rising star in the world of international filmmaking.