Today we’re talking about Anora, the new critical darling about the whirlwind romance between a Brooklyn sex worker and the hell-raising son of a Russian oligarch. The film follows the couple’s chaotic week together, their impulsive marriage, and what happens when the oligarchs hear the news and demand an annulment. It’s directed by Sean Baker, known for The Florida Project and Tangerine. It won the Cannes prestigious Palme d'Or award and is tipped as an Oscar winner. Who holds the power in the film? And why do people love it? FT film critic Danny Leigh and deputy news editor India Ross join Lilah to discuss.

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We love hearing from you. Lilah is on Instagram @lilahrap, and email at lilahrap@ft.com. And we’re grateful for reviews on Apple and Spotify!

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Links (all FT links get you past the paywall):

– Danny Leigh’s interview with director Sean Baker is here: https://on.ft.com/3YJXqBF

– His five-star review of Anora is here: https://on.ft.com/40PEFzc

– Danny recommends Andrea Arnold’s Bird and the documentary Soundtrack to a Coup d'etat. India mentioned the film American Honey

– Here’s Lilah’s piece about the Met’s employee art show: https://on.ft.com/4ewTl9R

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FT subscribers can share your suggestions for Woman of the Year 2024 in the comments here, before November 25. Who has had a big year, in your industry and elsewhere? Who has earned accolades, accomplished remarkable things, made huge strides, produced important work or set records? Who has shaped this year?

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Clips copyright Neon and FilmNation Entertainment

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Culture chat: ‘Anora’, the unlikely film leading the Oscar race

Life and Art from FT Weekend

Culture chat: ‘Anora’, the unlikely film leading the Oscar race