Sean Baker

Ishika Banerjee: A recent poll actually shows that viewers, especially Gen Z and younger audiences, want fewer sex scenes in films and TV. However, Anora has almost become a cult classic—it's insanely adored for its story and characters. I don’t think her nudity is the reason she won; it’s just an element in the story that further highlights her struggles. You can’t have a film about sex workers without depictions of sex.

Ishika Banerjee: It's really cool that you were able to interview a real sex worker for this analysis—I think it definitely adds depth to your argument. However, to me, this is a fictional story about one experience happening to a sex worker that can happen to another in real life, but it’s not an overall representation of all sex workers. Especially since it’s set in New York, it clearly portrays a very distinct community rather than sex workers as a whole.Regarding Anora’s abduction and the audience’s reaction, I do agree with you—I was slightly disturbed that people were laughing at such a crucial moment. However, I try to see it as an example of how people process trauma in different ways, not just in the ways we personally understand. The film does this so the ending hits like a gut punch, which, for most people I’ve talked to, it did.Additionally, establishing a preconceived notion about a marginalized community is meant to evoke empathy and understanding—not to perpetuate more stereotypes. We see Ani frustrated and vulnerable, trying to fight against her circumstances, but the system built around her won’t allow her to—that’s important to understand for someone who only views sex work as purely transactional or menial labor.I appreciate your analysis and really liked your article, but I’ve seen these points made repeatedly without much thought into what the film is actually trying to say. I also find it funny how, once a really good movie becomes popular or wins awards, the haters inevitably come storming in.

marvelousmars: As someone who (still) hasn't watched the film, I'm glad you wrote this and offered me yet another take on the film and especially why it deserved (or at least why it got) its accolades. More importantly, though, your description of the theatre cracked me up. What a perfect description of that particular hell.