In many ways, Anora captures the essence of a fairy tale, though its protagonist, Ani, is a stripper and occasional sex worker deeply entangled with the spoiled son of a Russian oligarch. This unconventional love story takes a dramatic turn when he spontaneously proposes, and they marry in Las Vegas, seemingly bringing all of Ani's dreams to life. However, the disapproval from those around them soon reveals the complexities and challenges of their relationship.
For Mikey Madison, the lead actress, portraying Ani represents a unique opportunity to explore a richly layered character. "From the very start, I recognized that she's incredibly complicated and nuanced," Madison explains. "Underneath her tough exterior lies a vulnerability that she struggles to conceal." She believes Ani yearns for her version of a happily ever after, motivating her to fight for her love despite the obstacles.
Anora made a significant impact after premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, where the film and Madison's performance garnered widespread acclaim. Winning the prestigious Palme d'Or was a surreal milestone for the actress, who had been pursuing her dream for nearly a decade. "Having worked so hard to attend Cannes, it felt surreal to see our film awarded the top prize," she recalls. "Every recognition that followed has been a wonderful surprise."
Prior to her role in Anora, Madison was relatively unknown, having appeared in smaller parts in films like Scream and Once Upon A Time in Hollywood. Writer-director Sean Baker saw potential in her, crafting the role of Ani specifically for her. Baker describes Madison as a unique talent with the ability to transition from a reserved demeanor to explosive on-screen moments, making her an exciting choice for the role.
As Madison took on the multi-genre aspects of Anora, she embraced the challenges of navigating her character through different tonal shifts. "At times, it felt like we were shooting a romantic film, while at others, we were in a horror or comedy setting. It was a fun and fulfilling experience to delve into those contradictions," she notes.
With accolades pouring in, the 25-year-old actress has received nominations for best actress at every major awards event, including the Oscars, where she is considered a frontrunner alongside Demi Moore. Reflecting on her achievements, Madison describes the recognition as "astonishing" and expresses her feelings of joy and humility. "It's overwhelming and amazing," she shares, revealing her gratitude for the film's impact and its resonance with audiences.
Should Madison secure the Oscar for Best Actress, she would join an elite group of young winners, including Jennifer Lawrence and Audrey Hepburn. Anora is currently showing in cinemas across the UK, marking a significant moment in Madison's career as she continues to emerge as one of Hollywood's promising talents.
