Two Indian films, “Laapataa Ladies” and “All We Imagine as Light,” are gaining attention for potential Academy Award nominations, marking a rare opportunity for Indian cinema, which produces over 1,000 films annually but has struggled for top honors.
“Laapataa Ladies,” directed by Kiran Rao, is a comedy about the misadventures of two young brides in rural India. It has performed well domestically since its March release and is currently available on Netflix. “All We Imagine as Light,” directed by Payal Kapadia, is a drama that explores the lives of three women in Mumbai and won the Grand Prix at Cannes in May. It was released in Indian theaters this month and opened in New York and Los Angeles on November 15.
Critics have praised both films, with a review in The New York Times describing Kapadia’s film as a “quiet drama about fragility, beauty and kinship.” Kapadia’s Cannes win was notable as it was the first major accolade for an Indian film in over three decades, prompting her to call for more recognition of Indian cinema.
Despite the acclaim for “All We Imagine as Light,” the Film Federation of India selected “Laapataa Ladies” as its official submission for the Oscars, a decision that surprised many critics who favored Kapadia’s film. Representatives of Kapadia’s film expressed disappointment, suggesting that the choice was a snub and are advocating for nominations in other categories.
The Film Federation defended its choice, stating that “Laapataa Ladies” reflects the diversity of women’s experiences in India, while some members of the jury felt that Kapadia’s film resembled a foreign production. Acclaimed director Mira Nair noted that committees often favor Bollywood-style storytelling, which may not represent the full spectrum of Indian cinema.
Both directors acknowledged the pressure surrounding their films and emphasized the need for a more inclusive conversation about Indian cinema. They expressed that the competition should not be viewed as a rivalry but rather as an opportunity for both films to shine.
Indian cinema encompasses a wide range of genres beyond traditional Bollywood, including regional films and documentaries. While only three Indian films have been nominated for best foreign film Oscars in the past, recent successes like “RRR” and Bhanu Athaiya’s Oscar win in 1983 highlight the potential for recognition.
Film critics have pointed out that promoting Indian films internationally poses challenges due to the diversity of the industry, which makes it difficult to categorize films in a way that appeals to awards committees. Efforts are being made to increase visibility for independent Indian films at international festivals.
As both directors continue their promotional efforts, they remain hopeful that their films will resonate with audiences and awards committees alike, contributing to a broader understanding of Indian cinema.