Visually compelling, well-acted, but emotionally distant.
Anora showcases Sean Baker's sharp eye for visuals and strong performances, particularly from Mikey Madison, who carries the film with impressive presence. However, despite its title, Anora feels oddly detached from its lead character. Aniβs story is filtered through the perspectives of the men around her, limiting our understanding of her beyond surface-level traits. The third act drags, with scenes that overstay their welcome, and the filmβs comedic tone sometimes undercuts the gravity of Aniβs situation. The narrative focus misses the mark, making Anora feel more like a showcase for Madison than a fully realised character study.