March 3, 2025: At the 2025 Academy Awards, Anora emerged as the big winner of the night, taking home a total of five Oscars, including the prestigious Best Picture award. Directed by Sean Baker, the film also triumphed in other major categories, including Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison.
Madison’s win came as a surprise to many, as she edged out the frontrunner, Demi Moore, who had been expected to take home the award for her performance. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Madison paid tribute to the sex worker community, stating, “I will continue to support and be an ally,” showing solidarity and respect to those she portrayed on-screen.
Sean Baker’s moment of glory came when he claimed the Oscar for Best Director. As he accepted the honor, he took the opportunity to advocate for the preservation of traditional movie theaters, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the audience. He expressed concern for the future of independent theaters, saying, “Movie theaters, especially independently owned theaters, are struggling. If we don’t reverse this trend, we’ll be losing a vital part of our culture.”
Not only did Baker win Best Director, but he also made history by becoming the first person to win four Oscars for the same film in a single year. In addition to his directing honor, he was awarded Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing for his work on Anora, further solidifying his role in the film’s success.
As the evening unfolded, Anora was celebrated not only for its sweeping victory but also as a triumph for independent filmmaking. The film’s success signaled the strength of the indie film industry, and Baker’s impassioned speech echoed throughout the night, reinforcing his dedication to the art of cinema.
When accepting the award for Best Picture, Baker spoke with pride and passion: “Long live independent film.” His words encapsulated the evening’s overarching theme: the preservation of storytelling in its purest form and the value of supporting unique voices in the industry.
The triumph of Anora at the 2025 Oscars was a significant moment in the world of cinema, showcasing the power of independent filmmakers and the importance of championing diverse and inclusive narratives.