11/29
Anora, a young Brooklyn prostitute, impulsively meets and marries the son of an oligarch. When word reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened when his parents travel to New York to have the marriage annulled. Mikey Madison reflects on the roles that shaped his path to Anora, from “Better Things” to Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood and Scream. At the Cannes Film Festival press conference, Mikey Madison said that director Sean Baker would play out different sexual positions with his wife, producer Samantha Quan, to demonstrate to the actors what he wanted them to do. Igor: PLEASE! STOP! SCREAMING!. Quoted in Close-Up: Anora (2024). Sean Baker, the director behind “The Florida Project” and “Tangerine,” has a knack for finding humanity in unexpected places. With “Anora,” he dives into the world of a young Brooklyn prostitute who finds herself swept up in the son of a Russian oligarch. What initially seems like a fairy tale quickly turns into a chaotic clash of cultures as Anora grapples with her new reality. Mikey Madison gives a captivating performance as Anora, portraying her with a mix of vulnerability and fierce determination. The film doesn’t shy away from the realities of her life, but it also avoids sensationalism. Baker’s signature neorealist style, using non-professional actors and location shooting, gives the film a raw authenticity. While the film’s first act may test the patience of some viewers, it is crucial in establishing Anora’s world and the circumstances that lead to her impulsive marriage. Once her Russian parents arrive on the scene, the film really takes off, becoming a darkly comic and often unpredictable exploration of family, love, and culture clashes. “Anora” is not your typical romantic comedy. It’s a film that defies expectations and offers a fresh perspective on the immigrant experience in America. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to take the journey will be rewarded with a thought-provoking and ultimately moving film. Check out the full lineup for this fall’s 62nd New York Film Festival.
