Sean Baker’s Anora marks a significant step in his journey as a filmmaker, delivering a polished, more commercial look while retaining his trademark authenticity. The film is visually striking, with Baker’s direction giving each frame purpose and intention. He skillfully blends the allure of a high-stakes romantic drama with a grounded, personal tone, mixing moments of luxury with the raw, relatable struggles of its characters. Even as the stakes rise, Baker keeps the story emotionally anchored, drawing viewers into Ani’s world and highlighting the contrasts between her modest background and the extravagant life she steps into.

 

Mikey Madison’s performance as Ani is the heart of the film. She brings depth and complexity to the role, making Ani’s journey captivating and emotionally compelling. Madison’s commitment is clear in every scene, delivering one of the standout performances of the year. She captures Ani's vulnerability and resilience, making it easy to root for her even as the odds mount against her.

 

Baker’s script plays with familiar themes but keeps them fresh enough to keep the audience engaged. While the story echoes narratives we’ve seen before, it’s crafted with care, weaving in humor, tension, and emotional nuance. The dialogue is sharp and true to Baker’s style, capturing the voices of characters who exist on the edge of conventional society. His seamless editing ensures the story flows with purpose and maintains a steady, engaging pace.

 

What sets Anora apart is its authentic feel. Baker’s attention to detail, from the settings to character interactions, gives the film a believable, lived-in quality. The contrast between Ani’s life in Brooklyn and Vanya’s opulent world emphasizes the cultural and personal divides that drive the central conflict, allowing audiences to feel the stakes without losing the human touch at its center.

 

Anora is a strong addition to Baker’s filmography, showcasing his talent as a director, writer, and editor. Madison’s powerful performance elevates the film, making it linger in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll. For Baker’s fans, this film marks an exciting step forward; for newcomers, it’s an engaging introduction to his unique filmmaking style.