Sean Baker had a moment of triumph when he won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his film Anora. However, the focus quickly shifted to the upcoming Oscars campaign, much to his surprise. Despite the buzz around potential awards, Baker remains more interested in recognizing the hard work of his cast and crew rather than personal accolades. He is known for his honest and humanistic approach to storytelling, often focusing on marginalized individuals in the US.
Anora tells the story of a relationship between a Brooklyn sex worker and the son of a Russian oligarch, blending humor with raw emotion. While some may see the film as a potential Oscar winner, Baker never envisioned it as a typical Academy film. He aims to shed light on the lives of people often overlooked by mainstream cinema, including sex workers.
The film features Mikey Madison in a breakout role, a departure from Baker’s usual casting of non-professional actors. Madison’s fearless portrayal of the lead character impressed Baker, who was drawn to her boldness and intensity. The film required extensive research and preparation, including consulting with a former sex worker to ensure authenticity in the portrayal of the characters.
Despite its unconventional storyline, Anora also follows a familiar fairytale narrative, particularly in the context of Hollywood’s star-making machinery. Baker’s background in independent cinema and his commitment to portraying diverse narratives have set him apart in the industry. He has faced criticism for his choice of controversial elements in his films, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to depicting reality.
Baker’s films often tackle social issues, with a focus on class divisions and economic struggles in contemporary America. He believes in the importance of addressing these themes in his work, even as the film industry evolves. Despite the challenges posed by streaming services and the pandemic, he remains a staunch advocate for the cinematic experience.
For Baker, the joy of watching movies in a theater is irreplaceable, and he hopes that Anora will inspire audiences to appreciate adult dramas on the big screen. As he navigates the awards season and promotes his film, he remains dedicated to telling authentic stories that challenge societal norms and celebrate the resilience of marginalized communities.
Anora is now showing in UK cinemas and the US, offering audiences a glimpse into the vibrant and complex world created by Sean Baker.