This is an international film in which love is hard to find and morals are put to the test. Set in Mumbai, the many emotions caused by various choices spiral. All We Imagine as Light is centered on finding the moments in life that count. Written and directed by Payal Kapadia, the writing and continuity display a sense of realism that is unforgettable. The emotional and cultural backgrounds in All We Imagine as Light are cohesive and prompt audiences to ponder the ultimate question, “What does the heart want?”

The film features a nurse named Prabha (played by Kani Kusruti). Her life is interrupted when a gift shows up from her estranged husband. She has a roommate, Anu (played by Divya Prabha) who is in love with her boyfriend. These two roommates are experiencing different types of feelings. There is deep meaning to this film although it is a quiet, soft-spoken one. It is a journey where audiences are curious about what Prabha or Anu are thinking. There is a purposeful dynamic focused on finding connections or love.

It is a beautifully written and directed portrait of Mumbai that is enhanced through the cinematography. Much of the lighting is in tune with Prabha’s and Anu’s feelings. There are moments ofsadness, confusion, and acceptance. There are also moments where hardship seems to cause great struggles in their lives. Overall, it is a poetic portrait of finding meaning in life and what one’s heart desires. Four out of four stars.