LOS ANGELES — In a surprising twist at the 97th Academy Awards, “Anora,” a unique narrative without the typical fairy tale conclusion, snagged the best picture prize on Sunday. Directed by Sean Baker, this Brooklyn-based screwball farce, highlighting the gritty life of a stripper, captivated Hollywood and secured its position as a standout film despite a tumultuous Oscar season.
Despite contenders like “Wicked” and “Dune: Part Two,” “Anora” emerged as a dark horse. Winning the prestigious Palme d’Or at Cannes, Baker’s tale about an exotic dancer escaping with a Russian oligarch’s son, was made on a modest $6 million budget. It claimed five Oscars, including four for Baker, acknowledging his impressive journey in independent filmmaking. The film, grossing a mere $16 million, is now part of a lineage of indie best picture winners like “Everything Everywhere All at Once” and “Nomadland.”
Baker’s advocacy for cinema’s traditional values came through in his acceptance speech for best director. He urged filmmakers to focus on producing movies for theatrical experiences. “Where did we fall in love with the movies? At the movie theater,” he expressed passionately.
Baker’s Oscar-winning streak across categories—best picture, directing, editing, and screenplay—tied him with Walt Disney’s 1954 record for winning multiple Oscars for separate works. His previous film, “The Florida Project,” also critically juxtaposes low-budget storytelling against lavish settings.
Independent cinema celebrated Baker’s triumph with his proclamation, “Long live independent film!” This year’s Oscars, hosted energetically by Conan O’Brien, also honored performances by Madison, Adrien Brody, Kieran Culkin, and Zoe Saldaña, steering away from controversial political discourse in favor of entertainment.
Brody’s return to Oscar glory, over two decades after “The Pianist,” was marked by his role in “The Brutalist,” portraying another Holocaust survivor. He dedicated his award to highlighting historic racial and ethnic oppression and promoting global inclusivity.
Madison’s performance in “Anora” won her the best actress accolade, beating out the expected favorite, Demi Moore. Both Madison and Baker used their platform to honor sex workers, echoing sentiments shared during the Cannes Film Festival recognition.
In another highlight, Zoe Saldaña received the best supporting actress award for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” which won two Oscars, despite challenges faced due to scandalous social media posts by a star.
Kieran Culkin began the night’s proceedings by winning best supporting actor for his role in “A Real Pain.” Expressing disbelief at receiving the Oscar, he reflected on his lifelong acting career.
The biggest surprise of the night was Latvia’s “Flow” winning best animated feature over anticipated favorite “The Wild Robot.” director Gints Zilbalodis humorously thanked his pets upon accepting the award.
Musical grandeur set the tone with “Wicked” leads Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, paying homage to Los Angeles through a captivating set. “Wicked” took home awards for production and costume design, marking designer Paul Tazewell’s historical win as the first Black man in his category.
“The Substance” was recognized for its makeup and hairstyling, and “Dune: Part Two” excelled in visual effects and sound. Meanwhile, “The Brutalist” took home awards for cinematography and score, cementing its artistic achievements.
The anticipated political moments were notably absent during much of the ceremony, with a brief acknowledgment from Daryl Hannah referencing Ukraine. “No Other Land,” a collaborative documentary on Israeli and Palestinian perspectives, won best documentary, emphasizing alternative narratives that self-distribution can provide.
International flavors were catered to with Walter Salles’ “I’m Still Here” securing the best international film award. Once a presumed frontrunner, “Emilia Pérez” ultimately stumbled, paving the way for Salles’ triumph.
The Oscar evening also commemorated Gene Hackman’s passing, with Morgan Freeman delivering an emotive tribute to his late friend.
In an unpredictable Oscar year, marred by industrial challenges and economic strife, the ceremony followed a tumultuous chapter for cinema. While last year’s telecast rode high on blockbusters increasing viewer numbers, this year’s focus on independent films tested the Academy’s pull with audiences.