Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light continues its groundbreaking journey, setting a new benchmark for Indian cinema with two historic nominations at the Golden Globes 2025. This monumental achievement sees the film vying for Best Non-English Language Motion Picture while Kapadia earns a nomination for Best Director (Motion Picture), solidifying her reputation as a visionary filmmaker. These nominations not only bring pride to Indian cinema but also signify its growing influence on the global cinematic stage.
In the Best Non-English Language Motion Picture category, All We Imagine As Light is up against formidable contenders, including the French sensation Emilia Perez, which leads this year’s Golden Globes with the highest number of nominations. Other nominees in the category include The Girl With the Needle, I’m Still Here, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, and Vermiglio. Each film represents a unique cultural narrative, making the competition exceptionally fierce and showcasing the diversity of global storytelling.
Kapadia’s nomination in the Best Director (Motion Picture) category places her alongside some of the most acclaimed directors of contemporary cinema, including Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez), Sean Baker (Anora), Edward Berger (Conclave), Brady Corbet (The Brutalist), and Coralie Fargeat (The Substance). This recognition not only highlights Kapadia’s extraordinary directorial prowess but also marks a historic moment as Indian filmmakers gain a stronger foothold in international awards circuits traditionally dominated by Western voices.
All We Imagine As Light has already achieved significant acclaim on the global stage. Its triumph began with a historic win at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it became the first Indian film to receive the prestigious Grand Prix. Since then, it has amassed a host of accolades, including the Jury Grand Prize at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, Best International Feature at the Gotham Awards, and the Best International Film Award from the New York Film Critics Circle. These honors underscore the film’s universal resonance, innovative storytelling, and Kapadia’s ability to weave a narrative that transcends cultural boundaries.
The film, which premiered theatrically in India on November 22, has captivated audiences and critics alike with its poignant exploration of themes, powerful performances, and striking visual artistry. Its narrative complexity and emotional depth have been lauded for challenging conventional storytelling while offering a deeply humanistic perspective that appeals to a global audience.
The Golden Globes ceremony is set to be a landmark event for Indian cinema enthusiasts, streaming live in India exclusively on Lionsgate Play on January 6, 2025, starting at 6:30 AM IST. As the anticipation builds, the double nomination serves as a testament to the expanding horizons of Indian filmmakers and the global acknowledgment of their contributions to cinema.
Payal Kapadia’s remarkable journey with All We Imagine As Light is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon of inspiration for Indian storytellers aspiring to make their mark on the international stage. It celebrates the power of cinema to transcend borders, connect cultures, and illuminate shared human experiences. Kapadia’s achievements at the Golden Globes represent a proud moment for India, heralding a new era where Indian films continue to redefine the boundaries of global cinema.
