Anora

Frank’s Film Review: Anora
⭐⭐⭐⭐ /5

The film opens with prolonged scenes set in a strip club that evoke a sense of aimlessness and meandering. However, the narrative finds its footing when Anora meets Vanya, marking a turning point that captures the audience’s attention and propels the story forward.

The film’s visuals are striking and impactful, demanding full attention. What sets Anora apart is its refusal to follow a predictable path. Typically, I can guess the story’s direction, but this one surprised me, turning my role as a critic into a fully engaged viewer.

The story revolves around Anora, a young sex worker from Brooklyn, who catches the eye of Vanya, the 21-year-old son of a powerful Russian oligarch. Initially, their connection is a simple business arrangement, but it quickly escalates into an impulsive Vegas wedding. Almost immediately, their bond is strained by the interference of Vanya’s controlling family, thrusting Anora into a turbulent world of power plays, emotional manipulation, and survival challenges. While Anora’s struggles are gripping and captivating, the romantic angle feels thin. From the start, it’s clear that Anora is primarily motivated by financial gain, and her feelings toward Vanya remain unchanged even after their marriage. She comes across as a woman who has struck gold, only to realize she is losing it. Her determination to hold everything together is driven more by survival than love.

Mikey Madison delivers an exceptional performance as Anora. She conveys the character’s strength, vulnerability, and fierce determination with precision and authenticity. From her perfect Brooklyn accent to her raw physical presence, Madison fully inhabits the role and draws you deep into Anora’s world. Her emotional range is impressive, especially as she navigates the more graphic elements of the film with confidence. The nudity in the movie, while bold and unflinching, is never gratuitous; instead, it underscores Anora’s vulnerability and reinforces her resilience as she faces exploitation. Madison seamlessly weaves these moments into her performance, making them an integral part of the character’s story.

Mark Eidelshtein also stands out as Vanya, delivering a nuanced performance that captures the character’s mix of charm and immaturity. Yura Borisov, portraying the enigmatic henchman Igor, is equally compelling. His interactions with Anora hint at a deeper, untold story that left me longing for more.

As some critics have suggested, I did not find Anora a comedy. Instead, it’s an intense, shocking, and emotionally gripping drama-thriller. After establishing the storyline, the narrative accelerates into chaos. It keeps you captivated, refusing to give you a moment to breathe.