Sean Baker’s Anora (2024) has captivated audiences and critics alike, clinching the Palme d'Or at Cannes and five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress. At the heart of its success is a compelling ensemble cast that brings depth and authenticity to this modern-day Cinderella story set in Brooklyn. In this blog post, we delve into the cast of Anora (2024), exploring the actors who brought these unforgettable characters to life.
Main Cast of Anora (2024)
Mikey Madison as Anora “Ani” Mikheeva
Mikey Madison delivers a career-defining performance as Ani, a 23-year-old Russian-American stripper from Brighton Beach. Madison's portrayal earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, as well as BAFTA and Critics' Choice Awards. To prepare for the role, she learned Russian, trained in pole dancing, and immersed herself in the local community, even performing her own stunts.
Mark Eydelshteyn as Ivan “Vanya” Zakharov
Russian actor Mark Eydelshteyn plays Vanya, the 21-year-old son of a Russian oligarch who impulsively marries Ani. Eydelshteyn, a graduate of the Moscow Art Theatre School, gained international recognition with this role, showcasing his talent in portraying a young man torn between familial obligations and personal desires.
Yura Borisov as Igor
Yura Borisov portrays Igor, a key figure in the film's narrative. His performance earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Academy Awards, highlighting his ability to bring complexity to his character.
Karren Karagulian as Toros
A longtime collaborator with director Sean Baker, Karren Karagulian plays Toros, the Zakharov family's fixer. His portrayal adds a layer of tension and unpredictability to the film. Karagulian's performance was recognized with a nomination for Best Supporting Performance at the Independent Spirit Awards.
Supporting Cast Highlights
Lindsey Normington as Diamond
Lindsey Normington plays Diamond, Ani's antagonistic coworker. Normington, an actress and real-life stripper, brought authenticity to her role, drawing from her own experiences in the industry.
Aleksei Serebryakov as Nikolai Zakharov
Veteran Russian actor Aleksei Serebryakov portrays Nikolai Zakharov, Vanya's father and a powerful oligarch. His commanding presence adds depth to the family dynamics depicted in the film.
Darya Ekamasova as Vanya’s Mother
Darya Ekamasova plays Vanya's mother, contributing to the portrayal of the complex family relationships that drive much of the film's tension.
Accolades and Recognition
Anora's cast received widespread acclaim, contributing to the film's success at major award ceremonies. The ensemble's performances were integral to the film's wins at the Oscars, BAFTAs, and Critics' Choice Awards.
A Cast That Brought Anora to Life
The cast of Anora (2024) played a pivotal role in transforming Sean Baker’s vision into a cinematic masterpiece. From Mikey Madison’s transformative performance as Ani to the compelling portrayals by Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov, and Karren Karagulian, each actor contributed to the film's rich tapestry of characters. Their collective efforts not only brought authenticity and depth to the story but also resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying Anora's place in contemporary cinema.
