I love a film about female friendship, and it has been a while since I’ve seen a film quite like ‘All We Imagine as Light.’ It is the story of three Indian women and the twists and turns of their ordinary lives. This film is an exquisitely delicate portrayal capturing a snapshot of life in Mumbai and the rapid change people are experiencing in this vibrant city. It shares the women’s work, love and friendship and tells the story of those women who leave their homes to go to work somewhere else.
Directed by Payal Kapadia this drama was one of the hits of the Cannes Film Festival, winning the GRAND PRIX with its beautiful cinematography and strong performances from the actors involved. I loved the setting and armchair travelling to vibrant Mumbai, before being transported to a seaside fishing village. Mumbai seemed like a character itself with its hustle and bustle and constant rainstorms.
The Story
We first meet room – mates Prabha and Anu. Prabha is a no -nonsense nurse who takes Anu under her wing. Prabha is being sweetly wooed by a doctor at her hospital but when a mysterious gift arrives, we learn about Prabha’s estranged husband.
Meanwhile Anu explores the city with her boyfriend trying to find a place to be together safe from prying eyes. He is a Muslim and therefore unsuitable in the eyes of her family and colleagues. She must decide whether to follow her heart or choose one of the men her family have chosen to form an arranged marriage.
Parvaty is a hardworking cook who is being evicted from her building. It is due to be demolished. In despair she decides there is no solution but to head home to her village. Accompanied by her two friends there is a lighter touch to them all once they reach the seaside village.
The Cast
Kani Kusruti (Prabha) steers the show with her calm demeanour and air of sadness. She is strong and capable in her lead role.
Divya Prabha is sweet as the young and in love, Anu. She lights up the screen in her every scene.
Chhaya Kadam (Parvaty) is the world-weary loyal friend who must do her best in difficult circumstances. It is wonderful to see the lightness which comes to her character as she reaches the sea.
If you enjoy a slice of life drama and wish to have a greater understanding of modern Indian culture this one might be for you. It is an intergenerational story which is intricately woven through these three women’s lives. ‘All We Imagine as Light’ is in cinemas Boxing Day.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
Leave a Reply