Recap 2024: Laaptaa Ladies To All We Imagine As Light, Indian Movies Going Global
Indian cinema has made a remarkable mark in 2024, with several films leaving an indelible impact on global audiences and film festivals. From All We Imagine As Light bagging the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival to Laapataa Ladies becoming the official entry to the Oscars 2025, the year was filled with prestigious moments that showcased the vibrancy and diversity of Indian storytelling.
All We Imagine As Light
Directed by Payal Kapadia, All We Imagine As Light stands out as a cinematic masterpiece. This Malayalam-Hindi film, featuring the talented Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha, delves into the lives of two nurses from Kerala as they navigate their personal and professional challenges in the bustling city of Mumbai. The film achieved extraordinary global recognition, making history as the first Indian movie to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival—a feat no Indian film had accomplished before. Additionally, it marked a significant milestone as the first Indian movie to compete in the main competition at Cannes since 1994.
The film’s journey continued with a successful screening at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it garnered further acclaim. Its international success peaked when it won the Gotham Award for Best International Feature, solidifying its status as a global cinematic gem. Audiences in France, Italy, the UK, and the United States embraced the film, showcasing the universal themes and emotional depth that resonate across cultures.
Putul
Indira Dhar’s debut film Putul created waves in 2024, capturing the attention of audiences with its poignant storytelling and memorable music. The film gained prominence with its anthem "Iti Maa," composed by Sayan Ganguly and beautifully sung by Iman Chakraborty. This song made history by becoming the first Bengali track to be shortlisted for the Oscars’ main competition category, highlighting the growing global appeal of regional Indian cinema. Dhar’s achievement reflects the increasing recognition of diverse narratives within the Indian film industry, paving the way for more regional stories to reach international audiences.
Laapataa Ladies (Lost Ladies)
Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, rebranded as Lost Ladies for its international audience, delivered a strong feminist message through satire. The film humorously explores themes of patriarchy through the story of two brides accidentally swapped during a train journey. Its clever narrative and engaging performances resonated with viewers, leading to its selection as India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars.
To cater to global viewers, the movie was made accessible with subtitles in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Brazilian Portuguese. Its worldwide reach was further enhanced with a release in Japan, showcasing the film’s universal themes and the importance of representation in cinema.
Jawan’s Japan Debut
Shah Rukh Khan’s 2023 blockbuster Jawan expanded its footprint to Japan in 2024, achieving impressive box office success. The film grossed JPY 16.5 million (approximately Rs 1 crore) in its opening weekend, surpassing the debut earnings of Khan’s previous hit Pathaan. With over 11.5K tickets sold, Jawan demonstrated the growing popularity of Bollywood films in international markets, particularly in East Asia, where Indian cinema is steadily gaining traction.
Chandu Champion
The inspirational sports drama Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan and starring Kartik Aaryan, earned accolades at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). The film won Best Actor for Kartik and Best Director for Khan, further showcasing India’s ability to deliver impactful cinema on global platforms. The film’s success underscores the importance of sports narratives in Indian cinema, resonating with audiences who appreciate stories of perseverance and triumph.
These achievements in 2024 underline the rich storytelling, cultural diversity, and artistic innovation that Indian cinema brings to the world stage. From regional gems to Bollywood blockbusters, the year has been a celebration of Indian cinema’s global triumph, reflecting the industry’s ability to connect with audiences across borders and cultures. The future looks promising as Indian filmmakers continue to push boundaries and explore new narratives that resonate on a global scale.
