After 13 years, the film Anora has taken the throne at Cannes. Directed by Sean Baker, the story revolves around a woman escaping from an arranged marriage to a wealthy Russian financier, making a significant impact after competing with The Seed of the Sacred Fig (by director Mohammad Rasoulof) and winning the prestigious Golden Palm at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.
The film Anora about a woman’s escape from an arranged marriage won the Golden Palm at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.
*This article may contain spoilers regarding the film’s content*
Anora – a striking portrait of a young woman both vulnerable and determined, featuring a standout performance by Mikey Madison
Anora belongs to the comedy genre, directed as if it were a modern version of Pretty Woman, in a Disney style. Similar to many Hollywood films from the past, the film explores the lives of people from different classes falling in love, facing societal barriers, and deciding their futures. In this case, the girl is a sex worker named Ani (Mikey Madison) living in New York, who meets Ivan (Mark Eydelshteyn) – the wealthy scion of a Russian financier. Ani’s story only exists briefly as her parents discover her profession and seem determined to ruin her marriage.
The film explores the intersections of class, love, and desperation, set against the stark backdrop of urban life and the harsh realities of existence.
Mark Eydelshteyn as Ivan (left) and Mikey Madison as Ani. Image: Twitter.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 19 minutes, the two characters living in completely different layers of society encounter each other, igniting feelings through Ani’s heated lifestyle. The story begins when Ivan offers Ani $15,000 to be his companion for a week.
Ivan is enamored with Ani, using money to create happiness for the girl. Ani is clever, more realistic than her wealthy boyfriend, but she cannot escape the deep thoughts about her life choices.
As the film progresses into a high-stakes climax, Ani must confront her addiction to heroin, which is a “father figure” for her. The realities of their relationship become clearer as Ani struggles with her feelings towards the wealthy lifestyle and the overwhelming love for her boyfriend.
Halfway through the film, the narrative shifts to a dramatic climax, forcing Ani to confront her addiction to heroin, which she sees as a “father figure.” The film’s tension rises as Ani and her companions face trials, leading to a climax that reveals hidden truths.
Actress Mikey Madison’s performance is highly praised as she captures the essence of the character with impressive emotional depth. According to Collider, Madison has showcased a unique portrayal of Ani, emphasizing her struggles within the confines of her environment while maintaining an outward appearance of confidence.
The film critic from Telegraph believes Mikey Madison is destined to become a star following her role in Anora. Meanwhile, IndieWire asserts that the actress delivers one of the most remarkable performances of the current era in this high-profile comedy.
Positive Reception from Industry Experts
After its premiere at the Palais de Festivals, the film received a standing ovation lasting 10 minutes. Previously, director Sean Baker has gained acclaim for his stories about class struggles, paired with a distinctive cinematic language and humanistic themes, notably in The Florida Project (2017) and Red Rocket (2021).
Jury president of Cannes – Greta Gerwig – described Anora as an exceptional film that resonates with audiences, evoking a wide range of emotions from laughter to heartbreak.
Receiving the award on stage at Cannes, Sean Baker expressed: “I genuinely don’t know what is happening right now. I want to dedicate this award to those working in the sex industry worldwide, who are often overlooked, marginalized, and disregarded in both the present and future.”
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has received a score of 97% approval. Many reviews highlight the compelling narrative and the powerful performances of the cast. Robbie Collin from the London Film Critics Circle stated that while Ani’s role might seem bleak, the film brilliantly captures the essence of joy, showcasing the actress’s nuanced performance.
David Rooney from the New York Film Critics Circle noted Baker’s skillful integration of class commentary, privilege, and the wealth gap. Sean Baker continues to distinguish himself as a storyteller addressing the marginalized segments of society.
Many reviews consider Anora to be Baker’s best work to date. A poignant and beautiful film, the conclusion is not only bittersweet but also filled with emotional weight and genuine heartbreak. Sarah Manvel, author of You Ruin It When You Talk, praised Anora as the best film of the decade.
From Collider, Sean Baker’s cinematic spirit shines through in the raw portrayal of reality, creating a deeply resonant experience that captivates with Mikey Madison’s outstanding performance. “Sean Baker builds a world where naturalism feels remarkably authentic, making it a stark contrast to the harshness faced by the characters,” Collider wrote. Meanwhile, Indiewire awarded the film an A grade for its exceptional storytelling.
Deadline suggests that the film’s controversial themes will likely spark debate, especially regarding audience reactions to the film’s emotional conclusion. “Beyond Ani’s confident exterior lies a profound emotional cost, exposing the sacrifices made to survive and the pain inflicted in the name of love.”
