A Night of Knowing Nothing

In this poetic documentary, a film student writes letters to her estranged lover, weaving together memories and observations from her time at the Film and Television Institute of India. Through her letters, she explores themes of love, friendship, and the political unrest surrounding her college and the country. The film blends personal narrative with broader social commentary, creating a deeply intimate yet universally resonant experience.

A Night of Knowing Nothing garnered significant critical acclaim for its unique blend of personal reflection and political commentary. Reviewers praised director Payal Kapadia's bold and intimate filmmaking style, her lyrical approach to storytelling, and the film's ability to capture the zeitgeist of a generation grappling with identity and social issues.

• A deeply personal and politically charged film that uses a love story as a lens for social critique.

• Praised for its poetic and visually striking cinematic language.

• Applauded for its intimate portrayal of student life and resistance in India.

Google audience: Audiences were deeply moved by the film's emotional depth and its exploration of complex themes. Many found the blend of personal narrative and social commentary to be powerful and thought-provoking, resonating with its themes of love, struggle, and identity.

Won the L'Œil d'or (Golden Eye) award for Best Documentary at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival.

The film was shot entirely on location at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where director Payal Kapadia herself was a student.