Payal Kapadia Wins NYFCC Award, Gushes Over Jodie Foster Watching Her Film

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY – Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has added another milestone to her illustrious career with her film All We Imagine As Light, winning the Best International Feature award at the New York Film Critics Circle (NYFCC) Awards.

Kapadia’s artistic vision has been celebrated worldwide, with All We Imagine As Light earning nominations at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards for Best Director (Motion Picture) and Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language. While the film did not clinch a Golden Globe, the NYFCC award underscores its impact and critical acclaim.

In a special awards ceremony, the NYFCC shared a video of Kapadia receiving her honor. The filmmaker reflected on her journey, recalling her initial apprehensions upon arriving in the United States in September 2024. “I was a bit terrified at what the film industry here would be,” Kapadia admitted during her acceptance speech. “And then I landed up at the Telluride Film Festival, as the first place I went to in this country (laughs). I have to say it was very nice! I’ve met so many incredible people here in the US and felt the generosity of spirit from the film community. Thank you so much for that, and especially overwhelming support from the critics.”

Kapadia also expressed awe at learning that Academy Award-winning actress Jodie Foster had watched the film twice. “I never dreamt in a million years that Jodie Foster would watch our film—let alone twice,” she shared, highlighting the film’s growing global appeal.

For the ceremony, Kapadia exuded elegance in a black striped suit paired with a black turtleneck, showcasing her signature understated style.