“Anora” is one of the most exciting Best Picture contenders in recent years, and awards experts agree. The film has shot to the top of prediction lists on awards-centric platforms like GoldDerby and the application Awards Expert, with outlets Variety and E! News also forecasting a slew of nominations. “Anora” hits the ground running with a relentless first act and maintains a surprising intensity throughout its two-and-a-half-hour runtime. It’s fast-paced, tense and surprisingly funny in offbeat ways. Mikey Madison’s standout leading performance energizes a talented ensemble cast, including an excellent Karren Karagulian with one of the year’s best character introductions. The humor is so unconventional and perfectly complements the intensity. It’s totally fresh and unexpectedly layered.
Beyond its technical brilliance, the film offers a striking reflection on today’s Hollywood, painting a picture of wealth and fame that’s notably devoid of traditional glamour. It shines an odd yet honest light on the often-regressive trends lurking beneath Hollywood’s golden sheen. Director Sean Baker, known for his grounded, human-focused storytelling in films like “Tangerine” (2015), “Red Rocket” (2021) and the incredible “The Florida Project” (2017), brings that same deft touch here, grounding even the most extravagant and theatrical scenes in contemporary emotional reality. It’s a shame that he missed awards attention for those films, but this year, the Academy will surely correct that by nominating Baker for Best Original Screenplay, Best Director and Best Picture. I predict he’ll likely win the former the easiest, with the other two being strong possibilities. The screenplay is simply amazing. Just when it risks becoming repetitive, which I was worried about especially towards the first act, the film always veers down new and authentic paths that keep the story engaging.
Madison’s performance is a major highlight. “Anora” is her first leading role and she owns the screen as though she’s been acting for decades. I predict that she will receive her first nomination for Best Actress come January. Many outlets are predicting her to win the Oscar, which I’d love, but I’m not sure that the notoriously traditional Academy is ready to award a 25-year-old newcomer who plays a frenetic sex worker. Still, crazier things have happened. Additional awards love for “Anora” could manifest in categories such as Best Film Editing or Best Cinematography, though those are less likely since the film isn’t as technically flashy as other historical epics or big-budget blockbuster films released this year.
NEON has already begun campaigning, and if the Academy embraces its boldness and Baker’s unique vision, Anora could well become a defining presence this awards season.
