The 97th Academy Awards celebrated a triumphant night for independent cinema as Sean Baker’s Anora took home five Oscars, including Best Picture, at the Dolby Theatre on Sunday. The film, a black comedy about a sex worker whose marriage to a Russian oligarch’s son spirals into chaos, also won awards for Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actress for its 25-year-old star, Mikey Madison.
Madison, who delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech, expressed her disbelief at the win. “I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me. So to be here standing in this room today is really incredible,” she said. The actress later joked with reporters backstage about celebrating with her new puppies, admitting she was still processing the life-changing moment.
The film’s success was a surprise upset, as Madison beat out 1990s icon Demi Moore, who was widely expected to win for her role in the body-horror thriller The Substance.
A Victory for Independent Filmmaking
Sean Baker, accepting the award for Best Picture, used his platform to champion independent cinema. “I want to thank the Academy for recognizing a truly independent film. This film was made on the blood, sweat, and tears of incredible indie artists,” he said.
Produced on a modest budget of $6 million—a fraction of typical Hollywood blockbuster costs—Anora earned six nominations and won five, marking a significant achievement for Baker and his team.
Other Highlights from the Night
The evening was a mix of glamour and tradition, with host Conan O’Brien steering clear of political commentary, unlike previous ceremonies. The show opened with a dazzling performance by Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who paid tribute to the land of Oz with a show-stopping medley.
In the international categories, Brazil celebrated its first-ever Oscar win for Best International Feature with I’m Still Here, while Latvia’s Flow took home the award for Best Animated Film.
Acting Awards Follow Predictions
While Madison’s win was a surprise, the other acting categories largely followed expectations. Kieran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for A Real Pain, delivering a typically flustered yet endearing speech. Adrien Brody secured his second Oscar for Best Actor in The Brutalist, joining an elite group of double winners like Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson.
Zoe Saldana, who won Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Perez, delivered an emotional speech, dedicating her award to her immigrant family. “I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award,” she said. “I know I will not be the last.”
A Night of Glitz and Glamour
The Oscars ceremony, which ran over three and a half hours, was a relatively subdued affair compared to previous years, with fewer political statements and more focus on celebrating cinematic achievements. Despite the ongoing global tensions, the event remained a celebration of Hollywood’s creativity and resilience.
Anora’s success underscores the power of independent storytelling, proving that even small-budget films can make a big impact on the world stage.