BAFTA 2025: Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ secures spots in the longlists
Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light has earned a place on the BAFTA 2025 longlists, marking a significant achievement. The film has been recognized in multiple categories, showcasing its artistic brilliance and storytelling prowess.
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Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light Shines on BAFTA 2025 Longlists
New Delhi – Payal Kapadia’s critically acclaimed film All We Imagine As Light continues its exceptional journey on the global awards circuit, securing spots in three categories on the BAFTA 2025 longlists, including Best Director.
The British Academy unveiled the results of the first voting round on Friday, covering 25 categories for its upcoming awards ceremony. Kapadia’s Malayalam-Hindi feature, which made history in May as the first Indian film to win the Grand Prix at Cannes, has been listed in three prestigious categories: Best Film Not in English Language, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.
Other Indian Talents in the Spotlight
Alongside Kapadia, filmmakers Sandhya Suri (Santosh) and Karan Kandhari (Sister Midnight) have been recognized in the longlist for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. Additionally, Indian-origin British actor Dev Patel earned a mention for his directorial debut, Monkey Man, and is also included in the Leading Actor longlist.
According to BAFTA, the films on the longlists have advanced to the next stage of voting, which began on January 3 and concludes on January 10. Final nominations will be announced on January 15, leading up to the BAFTA Film Awards on February 16.
All We Imagine As Light: A Global Sensation
Kapadia’s feature debut has garnered significant international acclaim, with two nominations at the upcoming 82nd Golden Globe Awards for Best Motion Picture Non-English Language and Best Direction – Motion Picture. The awards ceremony will take place on January 6.
The film has also been celebrated at other prestigious events, winning Best International Film at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards and securing a similar accolade at the Gotham Awards.
Set in Mumbai, All We Imagine As Light delves into the intertwined lives of two Malayali nurses: Prabha, a reserved woman longing for her distant husband, and Anu, her vivacious roommate entangled in a forbidden romance. Through their friendship, the movie explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of urban life. Chhaya Kadam delivers a standout performance in a pivotal role.
Other Indian Entries
Suri’s Santosh, a police thriller set in Uttar Pradesh, premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section and is Britain’s official Oscar entry in the International Feature category. Starring Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar, the film follows a newly widowed housewife who takes on her late husband’s role as a police constable while investigating a young girl’s murder.
Karan Kandhari’s Sister Midnight, a dark comedy featuring Radhika Apte, tells the story of Uma, a frustrated newlywed navigating life in her husband’s cramped one-room flat. Seeking liberation, she embarks on a journey through the city, embracing new impulses and desires. The film also stars Ashok Pathak and Chhaya Kadam.
Dev Patel’s Monkey Man: A Unique Vision
Dev Patel’s directorial debut, Monkey Man, inspired by the legend of Lord Hanuman, is set in Mumbai. Patel plays Kid, a man on a mission for revenge against corrupt leaders who wronged his family and perpetuated systemic oppression. The film features an ensemble cast, including Sikander Kher, Sobhita Dhulipala, Makarand Deshpande, Pitobash, and Vipin Sharma.
The anticipation for the final BAFTA nominations is building, as these films and talents represent the rich storytelling prowess emerging from India and beyond. The countdown to February 16 promises a celebration of cinematic excellence!
FAQ
When and Where to watch the BAFTA 2025 Awards?
BAFTA 2025 Awards will be broadcast on Sunday 16 February on BBC One and iPlayer, BritBox in North America, the Nordics, and Australia.
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