Rating 4.5

From a whirlwind romance to feeling the sorrow of separation, Anora offers deep emotion and intensity, says ABHI SINGHAL

The Oscar-winning film Anora is now streaming on JioHotstar, bringing its gripping tale of love and survival to a wider audience. Directed by Sean Baker, the film follows a young stripper’s whirlwind romance with a Russian billionaire’s son, leading to an intense battle against unexpected consequences.

Storyline

The film follows Anora ‘Ani’ Mikheeva, a 23-year-old stripper from Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. Her life changes when she meets Ivan ‘Vanya’ Zakharov, the 21-year-old son of a wealthy Russian businessman. Their relationship moves quickly, leading to a spontaneous wedding in Las Vegas. However, their happiness is short-lived as Vanya’s influential family steps in, determined to break them apart and take him back to Russia. What unfolds is a compelling mix of drama, love, and power struggles.

Performances That Bring the Story to Life

The cast of Anora delivers unforgettable performances that bring depth and authenticity to the film. Mikey Madison shines in the lead role of Ani, portraying her character’s strength, vulnerability, and resilience with remarkable precision, earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Mark Eydelshteyn, as Vanya, perfectly captures the innocence of a young man caught between love and family expectations. The supporting cast, including strong performances from Vanya’s overbearing parents, adds to the film’s tension and drama. Their powerful acting makes every scene feel real, ensuring that the audience remains emotionally invested throughout the film.

Music and Sound Design

The film’s music, composed by Matthew Hearon-Smith, blends modern beats with traditional Russian influences. The soundtrack adds depth to key moments in the film, making the emotional highs and lows even more impactful. The theme song Greatest Day by Take That perfectly complements the film’s central romance, making it even more memorable.

Awards and Recognition

Anora was one of the biggest winners at the 97th Academy Awards, securing multiple Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), Best Actress (Mikey Madison), Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. The film’s success at the Oscars is a reflection of its compelling storytelling and brilliant execution.

The depth of the acting is all that attracts the viewers to watch the film even with aged scenes. With its amazingly represented plot, exceptional performances, and strong emotional appeal, Anora is a must-watch for movie lovers.