Hollywood witnessed an electrifying evening at the 2025 Academy Awards, as the indie film Anora swept the night, claiming five Oscars including the coveted Best Picture and Best Director wins for Sean Baker. This dramatic victory was hailed as not just a win for the film, but for independent cinema as a whole.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York's nightlife, Anora tells the poignant story of Ani, a sex worker who embarks on a whirlwind romance with the son of a Russian oligarch. The film deftly balances nuanced portrayals of sex work with comedic farce, captivating the hearts of both audiences and Academy voters alike. Made on a shoestring budget of just $6 million, it stood out as the underdog of the competition.
Sean Baker, accepting his first Oscar for Best Director, expressed gratitude for the recognition of independent films, stating, "I want to thank the Academy for recognizing a truly independent film. This film was made on the blood, sweat, and tears of incredible indie artists." His words reflected the collective passion behind the project, emphasizing the film's roots within the indie film community.
Mikey Madison, who won Best Actress for her deeply affecting portrayal of Ani, took the stage with gratitude and commitment. She said, "All of the incredible people, the women, who I've had the privilege of meeting from the community has been one of the highlights of this entire incredible experience." Madison's acknowledgment of her character's community signaled not only personal triumph but also advocacy for sex workers everywhere.
Also among the night's big winners was Adrien Brody, awarded Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist, where he portrayed László Tóth, a Hungarian immigrant. Brody, reflecting on his career since his previous Oscar, remarked, "Acting is very fragile... it looks very glamorous... but there's one thing I've learned... it is to have some perspective." His thoughtful reflection added weight to the performances celebrated on this particularly historic night.
Meanwhile, Zoe Saldana claimed the Best Supporting Actress award for her powerful performance as Rita, demonstrating the depth and breadth of talent showcased at this year’s Oscars. During her emotional acceptance speech, Saldana spoke directly to her family and roots, highlighting her identity as the first American of Dominican origin to accept the award, stating, "I'm the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award and I know I won't be the last."
The night also recognized Iranian filmmakers Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi, who took home the award for Best Animated Short Film for In the Shadow of the Cypress. This marked the first win for any Iranian animated film at the Oscars. Their efficient arrival, having changed outfits just hours before the ceremony, added to the unforgettable narrative of the evening.
The ceremony, hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien at the iconic Dolby Theatre, was marked not only by significant wins but also by moments of palpable tribute and recognition for various communities affected by tragedy—including the Los Angeles firefighters acknowledged for their valiant efforts during the recent wildfires.
Several moments defined the evening; O'Brien's humor hinted at the recent controversies surrounding other films, including gentle ribbing aimed at the audience. His opening remarks set the tone for what would become one of the most memorable nights at the Oscars, balancing lightheartedness with important tributes.
One of the key takeaways from the ceremony was Baker’s plea for recognizing the importance of independent theaters, noting, “The theatre-going experience is under threat… it’s up to us to support them.” His speech tied his acceptance moments to the broader conversation about the future of film appreciation and exhibition.
Combatting competition from heavyweight films and previous award winners, Anora overcame its initial setbacks at other award shows, including the Golden Globes where it was nullified without wins. Its story of resilience was not only encapsulated within the film's themes but echoed through the milestones it has achieved throughout its festival run.
Reflecting on Baker's unique storytelling, today’s social climate intertwined with humor becomes central to the fabric of Anora. Baker, known for depicting characters struggling on the periphery of society, adeptly marries humor and heartbreak, reminding audiences of the human condition's complexity.
Overall, the night belonged to Anora. It didn’t just win accolades; it cemented its place within film history, showcasing the power of independent voices and storytelling against the glimmer of Hollywood's glamor. The evening ended with the promise of more stories waiting to be told, echoing sentiments for support and acceptance across all spectrums of filmmaking.