Anora (The Criterion Collection) [4K UHD]

I know there's backlash over certain slurs and I get it. But there are one or two or ten scenes in this harsh, luscious calamity film that left me cheering or just plain floored. The acting is thoroughly extraordinary. I was glad it racked up the awards. The one element I found kind of eye-rolly, and the weakest part of the film, was the opening sequence in the club (the line of lap dancers). It wasn't very imaginative, more shock-obv for me. Other than that, I adored it. The ending captures a particular trauma response that rings 100% true for me. I'd never seen it rendered this way before. Highly recommend if you like dark humor, relentless pacing, and in-depth character studies. Must be okay with sex work culture. Must tolerate gay slurs that are appropriate for the characters (but questionable as to why the filmmaker chose to include them).

Obviously this film isn't for everyone. It isn't a family film for sure. But it is a movie that does what all great movies do: it puts you in an environment most of us don't experience, it takes you on a thrill ride of conflict and suspense, it has a ton of wtf moments, and it has a satisfying ending that ties together all the themes and threads the rest of the film hinted at and spun. Without spoilers, I can say that the journey of Ani to Anora is poignant, subtle and ferocious, and ultimately empowering to men and women. The direction of the film is excellent--from the first moments you know you are in the hands of a filmmaker (and filmmakers since film is collaborative) who knows exactly what he is trying to convey. You willingly take the ride with him. The acting is excellent, with each character eliciting an emotional response from the viewer almost immediately. The roles are played in a way that doesn't telegraph too much too soon. The use of relatively unknown actors heightens the sense of reality and the viewer investment. Familiar "star" faces and mannerisms don't pull us out of the action. I don't know if there was music in the film because I was too involved with the action to notice.Despite the film's immediacy, the viewer also picks up on clues about where the story is going, and Ani's tragic background--it isn't spelled out, but some things are apparent by the end. I won't say more to avoid spoilers. This is a film worth giving your attention to and makes for an enjoyable and fast 2 hours!

A Disappointing Oscar Win: Why Anora Falls FlatThe Academy Awards have long celebrated excellence in filmmaking, honoring movies that push the boundaries of storytelling, direction, and technical mastery. However, this year’s winner, Anora, is a baffling choice that undermines the very standards that define an Oscar-worthy film. From its lackluster plot to its amateur execution, Anora is an insult to the legacy of past winners and a disservice to audiences who expect cinematic brilliance.A Plot That Goes NowhereOne of Anora’s most glaring flaws is its complete absence of a compelling narrative. The film meanders aimlessly, offering no real tension, depth, or stakes to keep the audience engaged. Characters are introduced without meaningful development, and the so-called “plot” is riddled with inconsistencies and uninspired twists that feel forced rather than organic. If a story is the backbone of a film, Anora is spineless.Direction and Editing: A Masterclass in MediocrityThe direction is equally underwhelming, with scenes that feel hastily stitched together, lacking any sense of rhythm or coherence. The cinematography fails to elevate the film, relying on generic framing and uninspired shots that add nothing to the viewing experience. The editing is choppy and erratic, making certain sequences feel jarring and disconnected, as if the filmmakers themselves were unsure of what they were trying to achieve.Acting That Feels HollowA strong cast can often redeem a weak script, but Anora offers no such saving grace. Performances range from overacted melodrama to lifeless monotony, making it difficult to form any emotional connection with the characters. Moments that are meant to be profound or moving instead come across as awkward and forced, draining the film of any sincerity.An Oscar-Worthy Film? Absolutely NotTo put it bluntly, Anora does not deserve a place among the greats. It lacks the ambition, creativity, and execution that define Oscar-winning films. Its victory is a slap in the face to classics like Schindler’s List, The Godfather, or Parasite, which showcased true artistic vision and craftsmanship. The Academy’s decision to crown this mess as the best film of the year is not just disappointing—it’s embarrassing.Final VerdictWhile film is subjective and different audiences may take away different meanings from a movie, Anora simply fails on too many levels to be considered a worthy Oscar winner. Instead of setting new standards for excellence, it drags the prestige of the award down. If this is the direction the Academy is heading, it may be time to rethink what truly defines cinematic greatness.

I paid $5.99 to rent this movie and I don't think it was worth it. While watchable, it is not a great movie, it is not even a good movie. The main problem is the lead character, Anora (Ani), who is not a likeable person. The most likeable person is Igor and we do not understand his kindness towards Anora as she does not deserve it. Ani objects to being called a prostitute but that is what she is. The first part of movie, the Anora character is nude, lap dancing or in sexual positions. That went on for a while which was not necessary but could have helped convince Academy voters to vote for this undeserving movie for best picture and best actress. The rest of the movie, the Anora character keeps her clothes on and the story begins. Movie is loud, chaos filled with many characters under the influence. There are some funny moments but without a likeable main character, the story falls flat. The young son who marries Anora is one dimensional and we do not know why he wants to stay in the U.S.A., other than fear of his Russian parents. This is a disappointing film as we expect a Best Picture winner to be at least a good movie.

Great film. Didn't love the ending personally, but a fun movie that captures a certain part of Brooklyn very well and has very unique characters