Mikey Madison Reflects on Surging Oscar Buzz for Her Role in Anora

Mikey Madison’s pivotal role in Anora, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes, has catalyzed discussions of her Oscars potential, marking her as a formidable contender for Best Actress.

Mikey Madison and Mark Eydelshteyn star in Anora, a film that intertwines elements of fantasy and drama. The title character, Ani, is not your typical fairy tale protagonist; she is a stripper and occasional sex worker whose life takes a turn when she marries the affluent son of a Russian oligarch in Las Vegas. However, as the narrative unfolds, it's evident that Ani's fairytale ending is marred by disapproval from her surroundings.

For Madison, portraying such a multidimensional character has been a profound opportunity. "I felt from the very beginning that she's a very complicated character, filled with nuance," Madison remarked. Her portrayal presents a blend of vulnerability hidden beneath a tough exterior. "Ani thinks she’s found her happily ever after, and she’s determined to fight for it."

The film has generated considerable acclaim since its debut at the Cannes Film Festival, ultimately taking home the prestigious Palme d'Or. For Madison, a lifelong dream came true as she celebrated the film’s recognition. “After almost a decade in this industry, to finally be part of something so special, and to have it acknowledged, is surreal," she stated.

Though she had roles in notable productions such as Scream and Once Upon A Time in Hollywood, Madison credits director Sean Baker for envisioning Ani specifically for her. "Her uniqueness is captivating," Baker noted. Madison's ability to oscillate between calmness and explosive emotion left a lasting impression on the film's set.

Navigating through the film's varying tones—including romance, horror, and comedy—has been both a fun challenge and a creative outlet for her. “At times I felt I was making a romantic film; at others, it felt like a horror movie or even slapstick comedy. Embracing these contradictions made the experience exhilarating," she reflected.

The 25-year-old actress has emerged as a leading contender in this awards season, receiving nominations across all major ceremonies, including the Golden Globes and Oscars. Speaking about her status in the awards conversation, she expressed, "It’s overwhelming—yet amazing—just to be considered."

If Madison claims the Academy Award for Best Actress next month, she will join the ranks of the youngest winners in history, alongside legends like Jennifer Lawrence and Audrey Hepburn. Anora continues to screen in theaters across the UK, further solidifying Madison's breakout status in Hollywood.