Writer-director Sean Baker’s filmography is littered with stories centered on sex workers that mix his distinct style of comedy and drama. However, his latest film, Anora, stands apart because of its ability to swiftly shift genres and a must-see performance from Mikey Madison.
Frankly, it’s hard to remember a film that immediately tests your boundaries like Anora. Within minutes, you’re thrown lewd curveballs and locked into the sexual tension of this neon-tinted strip club. It instantly makes the film drip with ecstasy—which reflects the early beats of its central romance incredibly well. Right as viewers meet Ani/Anora (Madison), they instantly recognize the persona she puts on to entrance male clients and earn their cash. Yet, as she first interacts with a young Russian client named Ivan (Mark Eidelstein), there’s a noticeable spark between them. Sure, Ani maintains the sense of confidence and control over their dynamic she normally would. But, there’s a palpable draw between them that results in a fast-flourishing connection.
Now, the ongoing relationship between Ani and Ivan is characterized, well, similarly to the opening—a lot of sex. The sheer rawness of the film’s deviancy can be a tad excessive — to the point where you either quickly become desensitized to the pair’s never-ending sexcapades or are straight-up turned off by them entirely. But, their purpose is to make you question their authenticity. The monetary nature of Ani and Ivan’s encounters immediately evokes the vibes of Pretty Woman — well, a grimier, raunchier version of it. As they get into more real relationship territory by using labels and eventually getting married, you wonder how long the honeymoon phase will last or if there is one at all. Regardless of their recklessness, though, it’s hard not to fall into the same whirlwind feelings they seemingly share because these performances are so damn charming.
Eidelstein’s performance makes Ivan a real-life cartoon character who’s hard to hate initially. The way he gleefully slides throughout his vast mansion is hilarious. There’s a blatant optimism to him that’s clearly misguided but appealing. Outside of the money, you could see why Ani falls for him, and to some degree, you kind of do too. As for Ani, Madison instantly captivates through her personality and ability to command your attention. She makes viewers laugh at her brash way of talking and the unabashed approach she has to life. Yet, you also love how she lets her walls down a bit and becomes vulnerable in this relationship. Madison and Eidelstein are such a fun on-screen couple and thrive off their energy of their characters’ sudden romance.
However, the good times don’t last forever, and the film goes through a jarring yet fitting tonal shift as Ivan’s oligarch parents attempt to annul their marriage. The change isn’t as dramatic as the mid-shift in something like Parasite, but Anora sheds its romance skin slyly enough to make its new comedy coat instantly impactful. Frankly, once Ivan goes on the run and Ani is forced to deal with the repercussions, the film turns into the greatest crime-comedy you’ve ever seen.
The introduction of these handlers, who are tasked with keeping Ivan in line, is superb because they’re just endlessly hilarious. Toros (Karren Karagulian) is one of the funniest characters you’ll see this year and every line he utters is pure comedic gold. He delivers one of the funniest “no” responses ever, and he leads a trio of lackeys who are hilariously in over their head. Honestly, Karagulian deserves some awards love for his work here, and Baker’s writing is top-notch. His ability to continually ramp up the comedy and thrills simultaneously results in a highly engaging experience. Baker effortlessly turns the growing frustration of his characters into gut-busting lines and Anora is at its best when it’s flying off the rails.
But, the film doesn’t stop shedding its genre skin there and actually turns into a thought-provoking drama once reality sets in — especially for Ani. Throughout the mad dash to find Ivan, you can feel Ani debating whether this idealistic marriage is even real. It embodies those fears we all have of being so vulnerable that we can’t see what’s in front of us. in the film’s final third, Madison’s performance goes from great to astounding as she handles the complex turn in Ani’s arc excellently. That last shot is one that’ll really stick with audiences and acts as a testament to the stellar commitment and immersive emotion Madison displays from start to finish.
At the least, Anora is the funniest film of the year and proves Baker’s formula and ability can make any scenario highly entertaining. At best, it’s a legitimate Best Picture contender with captivating storytelling, impactful themes, and a lead performance from Madison that’s unquestionably one of the best audiences will see this year.
