A few weeks ago, I was sworn not to reveal that NEON had acquired Sean Baker’s “Anora.” Well, it was finally announced today. This is a major deal for Baker, whose previous two films were A24 joints.
I will mention that the goal is to submit this film for next May’s Cannes Film Festival. That’s what I’ve been told and I believe Baker has a good shot at making it inside that lineup, as long as the film is of a certain quality.
Shooting on Baker’s “Anora” wrapped this past March. This will be his eighth feature film.
Baker describes “Anora” as "an adventure comedy-drama,” shot on location in Las Vegas and New York and which, for the first time in his career, follows wealthy people. The film was also shot in a “cleaner ‘70s cinema aesthetic.”
I had originally described “Anora” as a “love story”. What we do know about the cast is that ‘Scream’ actress Mikey Madison is the lead. Drew Daniels serves as director of photography and shot the film on 35mm.
With his last three films, “Tangerine,” “The Florida Project” and Red Rocket,” Baker has cemented his status as one of the best working American directors today. I also recommend his underseen 2012 gem “Starlet,” which is still Baker’s sweetest and most endearing film.