‘Anora’ deserves to be your next must-watch movie

I absolutely love Anora, the top prize winner at the recent Cannes Film Festival. I’m so thrilled it’s getting a theatrical release, giving more people the chance to experience this much-talked-about comedy-drama.

The film follows Anora, a young woman from Brooklyn, who gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and marries the son of an oligarch. But just as she begins to settle into her fairytale life, the news reaches Russia, and her dream is threatened as her new in-laws set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

I’ve already watched it three times—the first two during its screenings at the QCinema International Film Festival—and I could happily watch it again and again. It’s such a fun and engaging film with an unpredictable story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Mikey Madison, who plays Ani (a.k.a. Anora), is absolutely phenomenal. Her performance is so captivating that I’m rooting for her to win Best Actress. Mark Eydelshteyn, as Vanya—her prince charming (or is he?)—delivers a standout performance that feels incredibly real. The rest of the cast also shines, with their portrayals adding depth and intrigue to the story. Their interactions and character arcs keep you guessing at every turn, making the film even more compelling. That heartbreaking scene, in particular, is a testament to the strength of the ensemble.

Kudos to writer-director Sean Baker for crafting such a rollercoaster of a film! His mastery in bringing a well-written story to life is truly remarkable.

I’m already planning to watch it again and can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Watching this in a theater, surrounded by an equally invested audience, only amplifies the enjoyment. Don’t miss it—Anora opens today, January 22, in select cinemas nationwide!