Anora, a story about a New York sex worker who impulsively marries a wealthy Russian client, won five Academy Awards on Sunday, including Best Picture.
The film’s director, Sean Baker, took home Oscars for Best Director, Original Screenplay, and Editing, tying Walt Disney’s 1954 record for most individual wins in a single year. The movie’s 25-year-old lead, Mikey Madison, was named Best Actress.
Made on a modest $6 million budget, Anora emerged victorious in an unpredictable Oscars race that included Conclave, a papal thriller; The Brutalist, a story of Jewish immigrants; and the blockbuster musical Wicked.
“If you’re trying to make independent films, please keep doing it. We need more. This is proof,” said Baker, known for films centred on porn stars, transgender prostitutes, and other marginalised communities.
Madison’s win was considered an upset over Demi Moore, who had been the frontrunner for Best Actress for The Substance.
“I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me,” Madison said on stage. “To be here standing in this room today is really incredible.” She also expressed gratitude to sex workers, saying, “I will continue to be an ally.”
Anora, released by independent distributor Neon, has grossed $40 million globally—a fraction of Wicked’s $728 million earnings.
Meanwhile, Adrien Brody won his second Best Actor Oscar for his role as a Jewish immigrant architect chasing the American dream in The Brutalist. The 51-year-old, who previously won for The Pianist at age 29, reflected on the unpredictability of his career.
“Acting is a very fragile profession,” Brody said. “No matter where you are in your career, it can all go away. I think what makes this most special is the awareness of that.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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