India’s cinema scene is abuzz with All We Imagine as Light—a Malayalam film making its way to the Oscars. With critical acclaim at international film festivals, this movie has caught global attention. But does it truly deserve this spotlight?
Let’s analyze the movie’s plot, execution, and whether it lives up to its lofty expectations.
Streaming Details: Where to Watch “All We Imagine as Light”
The movie is available on Disney+ Hotstar, but unfortunately, there’s no Hindi dubbing. However, Hindi subtitles make it accessible for a broader audience. Set against the backdrop of bustling Mumbai, the film seamlessly incorporates multiple languages like Marathi, Hindi, and Malayalam.
Plot Summary: A Tale of Dreams and Struggles
“All We Imagine as Light” focuses on the lives of two nurses, Prabha (Kani Kusruti) and Anu (Divya Prabha), who share both their workplace and living space in Mumbai.
The Storyline
The film opens with a vivid portrayal of Mumbai—often called the city of dreams. It highlights the challenges faced by individuals who migrate from different parts of India in search of better opportunities. The movie navigates their struggles with loneliness, identity, and personal desires.
The Characters
- Prabha: A married woman whose husband works abroad in Germany. Her struggle with isolation and longing for intimacy forms a key subplot.
- Anu: A young and ambitious nurse who juggles work, family separation, and a secret relationship with a Muslim man.
- Parvathy: Played by Chhaya Kadam, her character adds an emotional depth that enriches the narrative.
While the premise is compelling, the execution is riddled with flaws, making the story feel disjointed.
Strengths of “All We Imagine as Light”
1. Realistic Themes
The movie delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and survival in a fast-paced urban environment. It portrays the sacrifices people make to chase dreams while being away from their loved ones.
2. Strong Performances
The cast delivers raw and believable performances, especially Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha. Their portrayal of vulnerability and resilience leaves an impression.
3. Authentic Setting
The depiction of Mumbai’s chaos, diverse cultures, and cramped living spaces adds realism. The multilingual dialogue (Marathi, Hindi, Malayalam) enhances the authenticity.
Weaknesses of “All We Imagine as Light”
1. Fragmented Storytelling
The biggest flaw lies in its screenplay. The lack of coherence between scenes makes it hard to stay engaged. Important moments often feel abrupt, leaving viewers disconnected from the narrative.
2. Underwhelming Use of Music
Music plays a vital role in elevating emotions, but here, it fails to leave an impact. Many crucial scenes lack background music, and where it exists, it feels mismatched and uninspired.
3. Unnecessary Visuals
The movie includes scenes that feel out of place and unnecessarily raw, such as:
- A woman changing clothes during a conversation.
- An explicit scene of a woman relieving herself in the bushes.
These visuals, instead of adding realism, come off as awkward and excessive, distracting from the main plot.
4. Limited Appeal for Global Audiences
While the film explores universal themes, its execution might not resonate with international audiences. The lack of a polished narrative and heavy reliance on “art cinema” elements limit its appeal.
The Oscar Debate: Does It Deserve the Hype?
Indian films often gain recognition by showcasing cultural struggles, poverty, or unique societal stories. All We Imagine as Light attempts to follow this formula but falters due to its inconsistent storytelling and excessive reliance on raw visuals.
While it’s commendable for a Malayalam movie to reach such a global platform, it might struggle to leave a lasting impression at the Oscars.

Final Verdict: A Polarizing Experience
Rating: 2/5 Stars
“All We Imagine as Light” has an engaging premise but fails to deliver on its potential. Its fragmented screenplay, weak music, and unnecessary rawness overshadow its strong performances and realistic themes.
Should You Watch “All We Imagine as Light”?
If you’re a fan of art cinema or want to explore India’s Oscar entry, this movie might intrigue you. However, be prepared for a polarizing experience.
What are your thoughts on All We Imagine as Light? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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