Sean Baker is still basking in the glory of his Palme d’Or-winning film, Anora. The director’s recent success marks a high point in his career, and he’s acknowledging the significant impact it has had on his work. Baker’s films often focus on characters involved in the sex trade, but Anora offers a fresh perspective.
The story follows stripper and occasional sex worker Ani as she navigates her whirlwind romance with Ivan, the son of a Russian oligarch. As their relationship progresses, Ani’s life becomes increasingly complicated due to her family’s opposition to their union.
Baker sought to break away from his comfort zone by tackling a different aspect of sex work in this film. He achieved this through clever tonal shifts and expertly crafted scenes that balance comedy and drama. The director has expressed the importance of striking a balance between these genres, highlighting how the audience’s perception changes when they pull back or get closer to the scene.
Anora was independently funded and acquired by major studios, resulting in its impressive box office performance and critical acclaim. Despite some variation in audience reactions across different regions, Baker attributes the film’s success to its ability to connect with viewers on an emotional level.
Looking ahead, Baker is cautiously optimistic about his future projects, acknowledging that there will be pressure from critics and audiences alike. However, he remains committed to staying true to his artistic vision and finding ways to continue pushing boundaries in his work.
Source: https://www.screendaily.com/features/anora-director-sean-baker-on-making-his-most-audience-friendly-film-why-hes-worried-about-the-next-one/5199974.article