It’s rare to find a film that has been awarded at Cannes, adored by the media, and even one of the favourites for the Oscars, that is as funny and entertaining as Anora.
Directed by Sean Baker, one of the leading names in contemporary independent cinema, Anora embodies the essence of the director, who often addresses some of the deepest wounds of American society, such as social marginalization, the failure of the American dream, and even the lives of sex workers, as seen in his previous film, Red Rocket, and now in Anora.
The film is divided into two parts. The first explores Anora, a young woman from Brooklyn who has the chance to live out a Cinderella story when she meets and marries the son of an oligarch. However, when the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents travel to New York to annul the marriage.
This is where the second part begins, full of intense chaos, intrigue, gossip, and natural, comedic performances that never lose their energy.
Miley Madison’s performance as Anora is overwhelming; Mark Eydelashteyn (Vanya) and Yuri Borisov (Igor) are two delightful surprises, while Karren Karangulian (Toros) and Vache Tovmasyan (Garnick) deliver the comedic elements masterfully, with a natural approach and precise timing!
With its stressful pace, the humor balances Sean Baker’s directorial style beautifully.
Anora features an above-average script, extremely natural performances, an impeccable soundtrack, and a delicate yet bittersweet direction that manages to unsettle while also embracing the audience. It’s wonderful to see Sean Baker finally receiving the recognition he deserves
