Sean Baker, known for focusing on sex workers, employs fairy tale elements to depict an unvarnished and realistic view of the American Dream. His latest film, “Anora,” features a stripper as its lead, balancing explicit nudity and sexuality with thoughtful commentary on male and female perspectives. Baker consciously navigates the “male gaze” while portraying the protagonist’s empowered awareness of her role. The film, which premiered at Cannes, explores the complexities of sex work, highlighting both the artistry and challenges faced by its characters.
Sean Baker’s films are well-known for their focus on sex workers, a theme he explores with a blend of fairy-tale elements and a raw, unfiltered lens. His aim is to present a realistic and disillusioned portrayal of the American dream.
Notable examples include the explicit adult film shooting scene in Starlet, where the lead actress Dree Hemingway is replaced by a body double, as well as several moments in Red Rocket. His latest movie, Anora, which premiered on October 30 after winning the Palme d’Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May, centers around a stripper.
In the film’s first half, viewers encounter scenes of nudity and/or sex as the relationship between Anora, played by Mikey Madison, and Ivan (Mark Eydelshteyn) unfolds. Baker skillfully balances the portrayal of these elements, avoiding both excessive prudishness and exploitation, especially in today’s context where discussions about the ‘male gaze’ and ‘female gaze’ in cinema are more prevalent.
“I was very aware of the ‘male gaze’ aspect that could come from me,” Sean Baker shared at Cannes. “Even back in Starlet, where my intention was to depict sex in a clinical manner without eroticism. I have continued exploring this theme as I evolve.”
In Anora, since the protagonist is a sex worker, she is acutely aware of the male gaze and uses it to her advantage, as it translates into her earning power. Baker aimed to showcase her professionalism and competence through her character. At times, he opted to lean into the male gaze to illustrate what men expect from sex workers.
“I leaned into the male gaze to show the audience what men expect from sex workers.”
“For instance, the opening sequence with the credits is very masculine. Likewise, her second date with Ivan features her dancing on stage. I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, as Mikey choreographed it herself. When she demonstrated it to me, I realized I could use her style to present the male perspective—or Ivan’s perspective—to illustrate her skill in her profession.”
“Regarding the sex scenes, I didn’t hire an intimacy coordinator. I leave it up to the actors if they want to have one; I’m fine either way. I am also confident in directing sex scenes. I’ve shot about ten so far and know exactly what I want. They’re very calculated.”
“Generally, these images are designed to push the narrative forward, often focusing on one position and one angle. I believe we were on the same wavelength from the start: as a producer, I ensure the set is safe and that protecting the actors is the number one priority.”
“It was fantastic because Mark and Mikey would suggest sex scenes (laughs), and I welcomed their input because I needed a lot. We initially had eighteen in the script, but we ended up with fifteen in the final film due to pacing cuts. We also had to think of various ways to depict these scenes to keep the plot engaging. It was wonderful to work with an actress who felt comfortable, bold, and courageous enough to take part in this.”
“Nudity is a part of Sean Baker’s work, and it’s vital to represent it accurately.”
“This is the first film where I participated in scenes involving sex or nudity,” said Mikey Madison, the courageous actress. “However, I had seen Sean’s films and developed a friendship with him as both a director and a friend. By the time we shot, we had known each other for a year, so I felt comfortable. Nudity is part of his work, and it’s crucial to portray it accurately, especially since Anora is a sex worker for whom nudity is part of her job and daily life.”
“When we shot those scenes in the club, I was the only one who wasn’t a real dancer. Everyone else were strippers and sex workers. But I felt at ease, as if we were all doing this together. I wasn’t the only one naked; everyone around me was too, and it felt very normal. All these women wore their nudity like a costume, like a sexy dress.”
Mikey Madison is currently starring in Anora, sparking anticipation of her potential recognition at the upcoming Oscars and beyond.
Interviews conducted by Maximilien Pierrette at Cannes on May 22, 2024