Greatest Day.
Review written by Jack Aling
Anora is directed & written by Sean Baker. Starring Mikey Madison, Mark Eidelstein & Karren Karagulian.
Anora, a young sex worker from Brooklyn, gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and impulsively marries the son of an oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened as the parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.
Easily the most anticipated film at this year's London Film Festival, Anora is every part as confident and impressive as you'd hope with striking direction and storytelling from Sean Baker and a career-defining performance from Mikey Madison.
I haven't been the biggest fan of Baker's past work but you can see his work get more assured over time with Anora becoming the culmination of his career and possibly even his masterpiece. The stark contrast of pulling this fairy tale into blistering reality - the intimacy and passion turning into rage and uncertainty makes for a sobering experience with Baker having complete control over every element.
But Anora wouldn't have the same impact without Madison in the titular role. She has such a commanding presence, swearing up a storm while fighting for the life she deserves.
With easily one of the year's most iconic needle drops, Anora is a sensual and exposing look behind the curtain at a life of wishful excess with an energy that will leave you breathless.
Our verdict: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Anora arrives in UK CInemas November 1st 2024.
Read more of Jack's reviews at: letterboxd.com/TheJackAling
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