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Anora: The Shocking Best Picture Winner of 2025

The 2025 Oscars delivered a major upset! Sean Baker's Anora, a gritty romantic thriller with a surprisingly dark twist on the Cinderella story, swept the awards, winning Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Mikey Madison), Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing. This indie darling, made on a shoestring $6 million budget, triumphed over big-budget competitors like Dune: Part Two and Wicked, proving that powerful storytelling can overcome Hollywood’s blockbuster bias.

A Cinderella Story…with a Twist

Anora follows Ani (Mikey Madison), a sharp-witted New York City sex worker who unexpectedly marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Their whirlwind romance quickly turns sour when his family intervenes, leading to a thrilling, chaotic chase. Madison’s performance is captivating, earning her the Best Actress Oscar and widespread praise. The film's success is also a testament to Baker's unique filmmaking style, known for its unflinching portrayal of marginalized communities. He thanked sex workers who consulted on the film, highlighting the importance of authentic representation.

Where to Watch Anora

Want to see what all the fuss is about? Anora is now streaming on Hulu, making it easily accessible for viewers. You can also rent or buy it on Prime Video, Apple TV+, YouTube, and FandangoNOW. Don't miss this critically acclaimed, Oscar-winning film that’s already making waves in the streaming world. The Criterion Collection 4K release will be available on April 29th.

Why You Should Watch

Anora is a must-see for anyone who appreciates bold filmmaking, captivating performances, and stories that challenge conventions. It’s a thrilling ride that blends romance, comedy, and suspense, offering a fresh perspective on love, power, and survival in a captivating narrative. Its unexpected Oscar victory underscores the growing appreciation for independent films that dare to tell unconventional stories.

FAQ

Anora is a dark and gritty reimagining of the classic Cinderella fairytale. It's a low-budget indie film with unexpected twists and turns, offering a fresh perspective on the familiar story. The film explores themes of resilience, societal pressures, and finding your own path.

Anora was directed by Sean Baker, known for his independent films. The film stars Mikey Madison in the lead role, delivering a powerful and memorable performance.

Anora is currently streaming on Hulu. This makes it easily accessible for viewers who want to see the surprise Best Picture winner.

Anora's unexpected Best Picture win at the 2025 Oscars is a testament to its powerful storytelling and critical acclaim. Its unique approach to a classic fairytale and strong performances resonated with the Academy.

Anora is a 'dark fairytale,' so it contains mature themes and may not be suitable for younger viewers. Parental guidance is suggested due to the film's complex and intense subject matter.

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