Movie Review
"Anora" by Sean Baker is a vibrant film set in New York City, blending comedy with high-energy scenes and poignant moments, showcasing the city's underlying chill and urban storytelling prowess. The story mirrors the humanistic themes in Baker's films, blending joy and sadness, comedy and tragedy. It delves into the destigmatization of sex work, leading to a remarkable and emotionally resonant conclusion.
Ani, a Russian-American exotic dancer and sex worker, lives independently and interacts with various people. Ivan, a wealthy benefactor, rescues her and they quickly bond. Ivan's parents try to annul their son's marriage to Ani with the help of a local priest and two bumbling criminals, but Ani's determination surprises everyone.
Writer-director Baker, along with partner Samantha Quan, excels at casting actors. Madison's standout performance in "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" likely led to her lead role as Anora, embodying a Tarantino-esque presence of intensity, fire, and strength, while also showing vulnerability. Introduced as a thug in a captivating home invasion scene, Igor discovers her delicate side, skillfully revealed by Baker to the audience.
The film's emotional intensity is fueled by its observational style in wintry NYC streets at night, beautifully captured by DP Drew Daniels. Toros and his team disrupt Ivan and Ani's marriage in the city's less glamorous corners, evoking New York's cinematic legacy from the 1970s. Marital happiness was unlikely with deceitful partner Ivan. In "Anora," Baker explores social class themes, showing how Ani's enemies are manipulated by Ivan's family, leading to a silent bond between them.
"Anora" is a film that skillfully blends excitement and sorrow, exuberance and profound sadness. Each character in this exceptional movie provides hope despite a poignant ending. Baker's heartfelt depiction and thorough research demonstrate a humanistic perspective.