“Anola” is a dark romantic comedy about a Brighton Beach stripper who collapsed for the unreliable son of a wealthy Russian oligarch, winning five out of six nominations, including Sean Baker’s Best Director and Mikey Madison’s Best Actress.
The independent film, made for $6 million, carried Baker to the new Oscar record as the first person to win four individuals in one film in a year. In addition to Best Picture and Best Director, Baker won an Oscar.
“The Brutalist” won three Oscars, including Adrien Brody’s Best Actor, a cinematography and an original scorer. “Emilia Perez,” “Dune Part 2,” and “Wicked” each won two Oscars in different categories.
“Anora” also set a drop in Oscar’s records. It was released in theaters for just $15 million, making it the lowest box office gross winner in Oscar history.
“We’re here tonight and we’re watching this broadcast because we love the film,” Baker said after signing Best Director. “Where did we fall in love with the film? In the theater.
“This is more important than ever in an age where the world can feel very divided,” he continued. “Filmmakers, keep making movies for the big screen. I know I’ll do that. Distributors, focus on the theatrical release first and foremost. Parents will introduce your kids to films in movie theatres and you will shape the next generation of film fans.”
Baker also thanked director Quentin Tarantino for introducing the best director category for casting “Anora” star Mikey Madison in the 2019 film “Time Upon a Time in Hollywood.”
Madison, who had previously been known primarily for his run in the FX series “Better Things,” turned 26 in March and appeared to be a bit shocking to the gift, Demi Moore, who won many predecessor honors and other actresses.
“Wow, this is very surreal,” she said as she unfolded her speech to remember all of her gratitude. “I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt like it was far from me.”
Adrien Brody’s Best Actor’s Winner of “Brutalist” is his second best actor Oscar after winning “Pianist” in 2003. In both films, his character was a Jewish man struggling to survive the Holocaust and its aftermath.
“To represent the trauma that remains here again and the effects of systemic oppression, anti-Semitism and racism.” “I pray for a healthier, happier, more inclusive world. And if the past can teach us anything, I think it’s a reminder to not lift hatred.”
Original issue: March 2, 2025, 11:23pm EST
