The film Anora, directed by Sean Baker, has taken a major step toward Oscar glory by winning Best Picture at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards. This victory comes after the film missed out on wins at the Golden Globes, making this award an important boost as the Academy Awards approach.
Anora Wins Critics Choice Award
Sean Baker, a New Jersey native, accepted the award and spoke passionately about the importance of film writing, independent cinema, and supporting local theaters. The film, which was made on a modest $6 million budget, was shot in New York City using traditional film rather than digital technology. Baker emphasized the importance of keeping independent films on the big screen and urged audiences to continue supporting theaters.
Anora tells the story of Brooklyn sex worker Ani Mikheeva, played by Mikey Madison, who becomes involved with the son of a Russian oligarch. The film has already gained critical acclaim and is nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress.
Baker has built a reputation for creating thought-provoking independent films, and Anora continues his tradition of exploring complex social themes. The film’s win at the Critics Choice Awards strengthens its chances at the upcoming Oscars, with final voting set to begin on February 11.
Apart from Anora, several other winners from New Jersey made an impact at the Critics Choice Awards. Zoe Saldaña won Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez, while Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain won Best Comedy. Cristin Milioti was recognized for her role in The Penguin, and Hacks, co-created by New Jersey native Paul W. Downs, won Best Comedy Series.
With the Oscars approaching on March 2, the success of Anora at the Critics Choice Awards has placed it firmly back in the race for the biggest award in Hollywood. Fans and critics alike will be eagerly watching to see if Sean Baker and his team can turn this momentum into an Academy Award win.
