TIFF 2024: Anora Review

This will be one of many reviews during this year’s Toronto International Film Festival, to keep up with our latest coverage, click here.

Few filmmakers in recent years have worked as tirelessly to preserve the spirit of independent cinema, while simultaneously pushing the medium forward as Sean Baker. Baker’s latest, Anora, delves once again into the world of sex work, this time through the perspective of a 23-year-old stripper named Anora (Madison), though she makes it clear that she prefers to be called Annie. The daughter of a Russian immigrant, Annie lives in a small Brooklyn apartment and works at a local strip club. There, she encounters Ivan (Eidelshtein), otherwise known as Vanya, a 21-year-old heir to a Russian dynasty living in his parents’ extravagant mansion. Visiting Annie’s club, specifically seeking a Russian speaker, the two immediately hit it off as he introduces her to his opulent lifestyle. Captivated by his wealth and charm, their transactional relationship soon becomes more real – at least to Annie who begins to believe Vanya is her ticket to a better life.

Annie and Vanya’s whirlwind romance culminates in a spontaneous Las Vegas marriage. For Annie, it seems like her Cinderella dream has come true—until the harsh reality sets in when Vanya’s powerful intervenes and threatens to upend everything. Anora feels like the culmination of Baker’s career to date, and it’s the film many of his fans have been waiting for. This is his big moment, one where he firmly establishes himself as a major force in cinema – yet while remaining true to his roots. Despite its broader appeal, the film retains the authenticity and rawness that made Baker’s earlier work so compelling. 

Previously delving into issues of income inequality with The Florida Project, Anora feels like Baker’s grandest statement yet. Its brisk pace, biting dialogue and neon-soaked cinematography are sure to entertain audiences, but it also packs a hefty emotional punch. While the film boasts sharp direction and a cleverly written script, its success hinges on Madison’s remarkable performance as the titular Anora. She imbues the character with profound depth and sensitivity, offering an honest portrayal that challenges the stigma surrounding sex work. Madison’s demanding role pushes her to new heights, and it’s the kind of staggering achievement that will solidify her as one of the most in demand actors of her generation.

Baker also introduces American audiences to a talented ensemble of Russian actors. Eidelstein shines with his comedic timing as Vanya, while Borisov delivers an unassuming performance as Igor, slowly pulling back layers as the film progresses. While the entire supporting cast excels, it is Borisov’s subtle transformation that is sure to leave a lasting impact. Much like Baker’s previous work, he throws a curveball of an ending that recontextualizes the entire film. That being said, while some of his previous endings have polarized audiences, the conclusion here will leave audiences with a lot to talk about.

With Anora, Baker solidifies his reputation as a master of empathetic storytelling, delivering a film that is both grounded in its portrayal of marginalized lives and large in its scope. By blending the raw, unfiltered authenticity of his earlier work with broader appeal, he crafts a film that is sure to resonate with audiences, exploring themes of love, power, and disillusionment with grace and sensitivity. Anchored by Madison’s standout performance and strong supporting cast, it is a film that challenges societal taboos while pulling its audience into a world that is both intimate and expansive.

In the end, it is an absolutely phenomenal achievement that is sure to leave a lasting impact on both the film community and mainstream audiences alike.

still courtesy of Elevation Pictures

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Tristan French