Anora cultivates dense substance under the surface. Through the perspective of a marginalized protagonist, it critiques classism and dehumanization. This is all driven home by the gut-punch ending, which crescendos its buildup while recontextualizing the preceding entertainment. So, the script is the best of all worlds: an engaging plot, touching drama, and relevant themes. Meanwhile, the acting is electrifying. Each performance oozes with lived-in sincerity, but Madison exudes a hardened exterior that masks a wounded interior. There's effortless dialogue, minimal exposition, and potent motivations. Consequently, Anora's versatile story can make viewers laugh, cry, and think.
Blending subtlety with chaos and humor with tragedy, Anora is uniquely offbeat. Its cinematography uses handheld oners to create immersion (plus interesting lenses and spacing). The editing shifts from a nostalgic flow of montages into an onslaught of controlled mania. Its sound utilizes ambiance to convey inner emotions, the restrained music sticks to diegetics, and its production design depicts wealth disparity. While peripheral, its effects add impactful stunts and touches of makeup. The cast has perfect fit, career-defining breakout potential, and a lack of fame that accentuates the realism. Ultimately, Anora makes the most of its grounded and intimate nature.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 10/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.8/10
Comments