Laapataa Ladies’ Entry in Oscars 2025 Sparks Mixed Reactions on Twitter; Fans of All We Imagine Branding it ‘Tragic’
India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, which has sparked a storm of responses-especially on social media-like a film storm. Kiran Rao-directed ‘Laapataa Ladies’ was chosen from the list to represent India for the Best International Feature Film category of the Oscars, with a move many are thrilled about. But not all is well for fans and critics of another critically acclaimed Indian film in recent days: ‘All We Imagine As Light’. The term used to describe this selection is “tragic”.
The Films in Focus
‘Laapataa Ladies’ is a Vibrant satire from rural India, a comedy about two brides who disappear on their train journey shortly after marrying.With such ease, this film blends comedy, social satire, and critique of patriarchy; in fact, it has gained praise from both reviewers and viewers since its late 2024 debut. This film, which had an amazing narration by Kiran Rao, explored small-town India and went in a new direction with its themes of identity, freedom, and societal expectations regarding women’s lives. It received praise for all of the performances, the sharp writing, and the novel perspective on rural India.
On the other hand, ‘All We Imagine As Light’, a poetic drama of two women, directed by Arjun Mathur, bases the story on grieving, memory, and spiritual transcendence. This piece proved to be the introspective and artistic piece that was especially praised for its excellent cinematography and emotive qualities. Critics have likened it to some of the finest art-house cinema India has ever produced. And many fans went into the festival hoping it would be picked as India’s choice for the Oscars due to its international appeal and unique storytelling.
Differing and Enthusiastic Tweet Response
As soon as Laapataa Ladies was announced as India’s Oscar submission, Twitter was a buzz of commentary. Supporters applauded the choice and expressed their gratitude for India sending a fun, thought-provoking, and universally accessible movie.Some praise it for “being something that describes the real spirit of India, and relatable to a global audience in its true-roots form.”.
Many expressed disappointments, stating that there could have been a masterpiece overlooked in the decision by the selection committee. Tweets continued to flow as some deemed it was “heartbreaking” and also “a missed opportunity” for India to present a more profound side of cinema that is artistic.
A breathtaking cinema experience. That’s what the Oscars should get from India, not another light comedy, said one.
Others said that All We Imagine As Light had better prospects of bringing voters across the border because of its universal themes of loss and healing, human connection, whereas this kind of language may not be too legible to other audiences for Laapataa Ladies.
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Laapataa Ladies, photo credit: Business today
Industry Reaction
Industry insiders have responded with somewhat more measured answers, even though social media is ablaze with divergent viewpoints. Some of them have noted that Laapataa Ladies might end up being a safer pick tactically because comedies—especially ones that are socially and culturally relevant—tend to perform well at the Oscars.Films like ‘Parasite’ and ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ show that a mix of humor, heart, and complexity could capture the attention of the Academy.
Again, the movie’s proponents of ‘Laapataa Ladies‘ will argue that the film is positioned as a pertinent take on female empowerment and individual freedom itself, with its lens unifying these global themes, hence it stands strong.
Moving Forward
The debate over selection might continue till India gears up for the Oscars race, but ‘Laapataa Ladies’ will have to face international scrutiny and competition. Chances of making some noise, for sure, as directed by Kiran Rao, as the story could appeal to a far wider audience.
Meanwhile, the fans of the movie ‘All We Imagine As Light’ will keep mumbling and grumbling about this missed chance by Indian cinema for a more defined, artistic representation on the world stage
FAQs:
- What is the story of Laapataa Ladies ?
Laapataa Ladies is a 2023 Indian hindi language comedy drama film directed by Kiran rao and produced by Rao, Jyoti Deshpande, and Amir khan.
