Indie Film “Anora” Dominates Oscars with Five Wins, Including Best Picture and Best Director

Independent movie “Anora” was the shock winner at the Oscars on Sunday, taking home five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Sean Baker, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. Madison, 25, won the award for her portrayal of a sex worker in the black comedy, beating favorites like Demi Moore. “This is a dream come true,” Madison said, speaking of her excitement at the win.

“Anora”, which was made for a mere $6 million, also won Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing awards. Baker thanked the independent filmmakers of the film during his acceptance speech and called for more support for independent films.

The Oscars were not as political as in previous years, with host Conan O’Brien making sure that entertainment was the theme of the evening and not politics. Other notable winners were Kieran Culkin for Best Supporting Actor for “A Real Pain”, Adrien Brody for Best Supporting Actor for “The Brutalist”, and Zoe Saldana for Best Supporting Actress for “Emilia Perez”.

“Anora’s” success was a big victory for independent cinema in a year that was dominated by big-budget films.