20 October 2024, Mikey Madison, known more for her supporting role in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the Oscars in 2025 with her performance in Anora. Helmed by Sean Baker, the film explores the life of a sex worker who decides to overcome adversities and find love in New York. Madison is subtle in her portrayal, which impressed the critics enough to turn her from mere bit parts to hot favorite for Best Actress.

To prepare for the role, Madison researched it extensively by talking with strippers and sex workers to bring a sense of realism to her character. Working with Baker, who makes films about marginalized people and groups, as is evidenced by his filmography, she made several suggestions during the shoot that really brought layers to the role. She fully invested in the long, uninterrupted takes-a signature style of Baker-that give the film its raw and intimate texture.

It premiered at Cannes, where Anora took the Palme d’Or and then sailed triumphantly into festivals such as Telluride, Toronto, and New York. Audiences have taken to it, Madison’s performance commanding standing ovations and positioning her as the frontrunner for this award season. This is in conjunction with what critics have said: that she brings an amazing sense of vulnerability and strength, balancing humor and heartbreak throughout the film seamlessly.

In interviews, Madison speaks of the surreal nature of the acclaim she’s getting. “This is something that I’ve wanted since starting my career,” she shared, still trying to wrap her head around this whirlwind experience traveling to festivals and sharing with diverse audiences.

From playing minor roles in TV series to independent film roles, leading roles evidence her growth as an actress. Anora will provide her an Oscar buzz; hence, it is very crucial for her career, proving her one of the rising stars in Hollywood.