Sean Baker, the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed film Anora, has recently expressed his admiration for rising star Mikey Madison, who plays the lead role of Ani, a sharp-tongued stripper from Brooklyn. Baker’s enthusiasm for Madison’s talent is palpable, especially considering her breakout performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood. During a Q&A session at the Barbican Centre in London, Baker revealed his surprise that Madison did not land a lead role immediately following her appearance in the 2019 film.
In Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood, Madison portrayed Susan “Sadie” Atkins, a member of the infamous Manson family. Baker noted that she "steals the last 15 minutes of that film," showcasing her ability to captivate audiences with her performance. He recalled the striking introduction of her character, which involved a memorable scene where Brad Pitt’s character throws a can of dog food at her, followed by a dramatic encounter with Leonardo DiCaprio. This powerful first impression left a lasting impact on Baker, who had not previously seen Madison in her role on the FX comedy-drama series Better Things.
Baker’s keen eye for talent led him to file Madison away in his mind as someone he wanted to work with in the future. However, he was taken aback by the fact that she did not receive a lead role right after Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood. Instead, Madison’s next significant role came in the 2022 Scream reboot, where she played Amber Freeman, a character who ultimately reveals herself as the infamous Ghostface.
It was this performance that solidified Baker’s decision to cast Madison as Ani in Anora. He recounted attending the film’s opening weekend with his wife, Samantha Quan, who is also a producer on Anora. As they watched Madison’s performance unfold, it became clear to both of them that she was the perfect fit for the role. Baker described how they were so impressed that they decided to contact her agent immediately after leaving the theater.
Madison’s portrayal in Scream showcased her range as an actress, blending sass and humor with a subtlety that resonated with Baker. He highlighted the importance of her performance before her character’s true nature was revealed, noting that it was a combination of her charm and comedic timing that made her stand out. This multifaceted talent is what ultimately led Baker to envision her as Ani, a character that embodies complexity and depth.
In recent interviews, Madison has shared her experiences with fans who were upset with her character’s actions in Scream, expressing her surprise at the strong emotional reactions. She humorously recounted how people approach her, saying, “I hate that this happened. I’m mad at you,” to which she responds, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t write the script!” This interaction highlights the impact of her performances on audiences and the strong connection viewers feel with her characters.
Anora has already garnered significant acclaim, winning the prestigious Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival and generating Oscar buzz. The film has been praised for its unique blend of dark themes and laugh-out-loud comedy, with Baker’s writing and character development receiving particular acclaim. Critics have noted that Madison’s performance as Ani is a standout, contributing to the film’s overall success and resonance with viewers.
The film’s narrative, which explores the world of sex work through a realistic and judgment-free lens, has struck a chord with audiences. Baker’s commitment to portraying this subject matter authentically, aided by consultant Andrea Werhun, author of Modern Whore, allows viewers to empathize with Ani’s journey. This approach not only entertains but also encourages reflection on the complexities of the characters’ lives long after the credits roll.
As Anora continues to make waves in the film industry, it is clear that Mikey Madison is a talent to watch. With her compelling performances and Baker’s visionary direction, the film is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
