Anora Stars Advocate for Respect Towards Sex Workers Following Oscar Triumph

The 2025 Oscars have arrived, and the stars of the widely celebrated film Anora are using the spotlight to call for greater respect for sex workers in Hollywood. The film, a mix of comedy and romance, depicts the life of a young sex worker in Brooklyn, who unexpectedly marries the son of a Russian oligarch. This union sparks a series of events as his family travels to New York to try and annul the marriage.

Anora received six nominations at the Oscars, ultimately winning the award for Best Original Screenplay. Director Sean Baker, known for his engaging and thoughtful storytelling, expressed his gratitude to the sex worker community during his acceptance speech. He remarked, "They have shared their stories and life experiences with me over the years. My deepest respect, thank you. I share this with you."

The film's impact extends beyond its narrative, as it has opened discussions about the portrayal and respect of sex workers in the entertainment industry. Luna Sofia Miranda, who plays Anora’s best friend Lulu, has been vocal about the film’s role in this cultural shift. According to an interview with the BBC, Miranda praised Mikey Madison, the film’s star, for highlighting the respect sex workers deserve but often do not receive.

Miranda’s involvement in Anora has already stirred positive responses from the sex worker community. Special screenings in New York and Los Angeles were dedicated to this community, where attendees showed their appreciation by clapping their Platform Pleaser heels above their heads—a gesture that deeply moved Madison. She described it as "the most beautiful applause I've ever received."

The film also stars Edie Turquet, a fellow actress and exotic dancer, who played the role of a background dancer. Turquet acknowledged the film's exploration of the morality surrounding intimacy and sex, noting that the characters stayed true to their professional lives throughout the narrative. Despite her praise, Turquet expressed a desire for stories about sex workers to be told by sex workers themselves.

The Importance of Representation

The conversation around Anora has amplified the voices of many advocating for the representation and respect of sex workers in media. Miranda hopes the film’s success at the Oscars marks the beginning of a paradigm shift in Hollywood, not only recognizing sex workers as professionals in their respective fields but also as entertainers who deserve dignity and respect.

"My hope is that if this film wins an Oscar, it marks the beginning of a shift in Hollywood," Miranda said. "Where sex workers are respected, as workers in their own fields, but also as entertainers." This sentiment is shared widely within the community, as the film’s release has sparked conversations about the portrayal of sex workers on screen.

Sean Baker’s approach to filmmaking, which often includes working closely with the communities he depicts, has been praised for its authenticity and sensitivity. By involving sex workers in the production of Anora, Baker has not only elevated the narrative but also empowered those whose stories are being told.

Looking Ahead: A Call for More Inclusive Narratives

While Anora sets a precedent in Hollywood, the conversation does not stop here. Turquet’s reflections on the film highlight the need for sex workers to share their own stories, paving the way for more inclusive and diverse narratives. "It's better than any film I've seen about it," she said, "but ultimately it's limited as it's not told by a sex worker. I can't wait till we're telling our own stories and hopefully this opens the door to that."

Anora serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging filmmakers and audiences alike to consider the voices and perspectives of sex workers. As Hollywood continues to evolve, the recognition of diverse experiences and stories becomes increasingly important.

We invite you to share your thoughts on this topic. How do you perceive the portrayal of sex workers in media? Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the dialogue respectful and constructive.

Anora is a testament to the power of film to challenge societal norms and advocate for those whose voices are often marginalized. With its success at the Oscars, the hope is for a future where sex workers are not only seen but also heard, respected, and represented in their full humanity.