Russian actor Yura Borisov has received notable recognition after being nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Academy Awards for his performance as Igor in the film Anora. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sean Baker, Anora not only features Borisov but was also recognized with nominations across multiple categories, including Best Picture and Best Director. This nomination marks a significant milestone, as Borisov becomes the first Russian actor to secure such recognition since Mikhail Baryshnikov’s nomination for The Turning Point back in 1977.
The announcement of the Academy Award nominations was made by actors Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott during the event held at the Film Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. Alongside Borisov, competitors for the coveted award include notable talents such as Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, and Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice.
The film Anora, described as a modern twist on the classic Cinderella tale, shadows the life of Anora, who entangles herself with the son of Russian billionaires. Borisov portrays Igor, who is characterized as structured yet conflicted—a henchman embodying themes of loyalty, cultural identity, and personal conflict. Of his character, Borisov reflects, “It’s about survival in a world often misunderstanding or exploiting people. Igor wants to protect Anora, but he’s also trapped within this system.”
Sean Baker's decision to cast Borisov stemmed from seeing him perform at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, where Borisov starred in Compartment No. 6, which won the Grand Prix. Baker was instantly captivated, stating, "I saw him in ‘Compartment No. 6’ at Cannes and immediately fell in love — I could just see what an amazing actor he was.” Even before penning the script for Anora, Baker had set his sight on Borisov due to his extraordinary talent.
Upon joining the cast of Anora, Borisov experienced several firsts, including acting within English dialogues and being on American soil. His first day filming echoed the chaotic atmosphere of the movie, where he had to navigate complex shooting scenes involving his character without much prior familiarity with the crew or production process. He recalls this initiation as intense yet exhilarating, comparing it to entering a party late and trying to feel the vibe.
Behind the scenes, Borisov noted the collaborative atmosphere cultivated by Baker, saying, “He kept asking me about my character, never saying, ‘You must do this or go this way.’ There was a lot of freedom.” Baker acknowledged the subtle yet impactful mannerisms Borisov infused his performance with, which significantly contributed to the film’s emotional depth.
Another standout aspect is the camaraderie developed among the cast, with Borisov recommending fellow Russian actor Mark Eydelshteyn for the leading role alongside him—further proof of his commitment to the film’s collective success.
With the upcoming Academy Awards ceremony scheduled for March 2, excitement is building around Borisov's potential for not just winning but also showcasing the capabilities of international actors on such prestigious platforms. His nominations, alongside those of his co-stars, signal Hollywood’s recognition of distinctive storytelling and diverse talent.
Reflecting on the nominations, Borisov expressed his gratefulness and enthusiasm for the project and its reception, especially knowing the unique perspective international films bring to mainstream cinema. He hopes viewers will understand the film’s universe and connect with its characters, as he feels it is more than just entertainment—it's about shared human experiences.
The nominations presented are not only significant for Borisov personally, but they also illuminate the growing appreciation for films like Anora which weave complex narratives blending cultural critiques with engaging storytelling. It resonates with audiences worldwide, illustrating the power of cinematic art to transcend boundaries.
One thing is clear: whether or not Borisov takes home the Oscar, his participation and recognition will likely lead to more opportunities, both for himself and for international cinema, which is continually finding its place in the global film industry.