Payal Kapadia confirms making a trilogy of films based in Mumbai after the success of 'All We Imagine as Light'

Payal Kapadia’s directorial venture ‘All We Imagine as Light’ was recognised at Cannes and the Golden Globes, making all Indians proud on the global stage. Following the recent OTT release of her award-winning film, Kapadia is reportedly shifting her focus to her next project, which may mark the beginning of a trilogy set in Mumbai.

Speaking to Variety, Kapadia shared her aspirations for the upcoming project, revealing that she has started writing her next film, based in Mumbai. “It’s a bit early, but I’m thinking about doing two more films in Bombay and having this kind of a trilogy,” she added.



Kapadia also addressed criticism from filmmaker Jahnu Barua, who referred to her film as “technically very poor” during his tenure as the head of India’s Oscar committee. Responding graciously, Kapadia stated that she does not know what he meant and would like to ask him if they meet in the future. Reflecting on the Oscar submission process, Kapadia shared that while it would have been nice for her film to be selected, she respects the process. The filmmaker revealed that her movie was made by applying for grants.
‘All We Imagine as Light’, an Indo-French collaboration, features Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Hridhu Haroon, and Chhaya Kadam in key roles. The story intricately weaves together the lives of Prabha, a troubled nurse navigating the complexities of an unexpected gift from her estranged husband, and Anu, her young roommate exploring personal freedom. Their transformative trip to Ratnagiri forms the emotional core of the narrative.

The film won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, as well as Best International Feature accolades from the New York Film Critics Circle and Gotham Awards in 2024. Former US President Barack Obama further boosted its profile by including it in his list of favourite films for the year.