At the Donut Hut, a charming retro eatery in Burbank, California, acclaimed writer and director Sean Baker was bustling with excitement while preparing for a key scene in his latest film, “Anora.” The film, which has garnered six Oscar nominations including best picture, features rising star Mikey Madison, who embodies the character “Sprinklelina.” Baker creatively describes the film’s quirky premise as focusing on “crazy doughnut bandits” who invade the shop, much to the dismay of the unsuspecting owner, portrayed by Randall Park.
Baker, known for bringing unconventional stories to life, continues his trend of featuring doughnut shops, having previously showcased such establishments in his films “Tangerine” and “Red Rocket.” Despite the thematic continuation, he humorously claims no personal attachment to doughnuts, stating, “I don’t even eat doughnuts!” His humor is matched by wife and producer Samantha Quan, who jokingly insists he does indulge.
The shoot involved stylish costumes for the cast, including Madison, who dazzled in a JW Anderson minidress and red heels, as well as a comedic direction style inspired by the tension of spaghetti westerns combined with modern horror. Baker’s commitment to unconventional casting shines through as he selects newcomers and lesser-known actors for his films, preferring to source talent from various and sometimes surprising avenues, rather than chasing A-list stars.
Madison, nominated for best actress for her role, dedicated herself to mastering pole dancing and even learning Russian for her character Ani, whose traits are complex, blending toughness with vulnerability. Baker’s unique storytelling approach not only holds comedic elements but also creates moments of tension reminiscent of classics like “The French Connection.”
Following the film’s success at the Cannes Film Festival and various award nominations, Baker emphasizes his desire to maintain his artistic independence, preferring to focus on small, meaningful projects rather than conforming to Hollywood’s traditional formula. His method reflects a dedication to creativity and authenticity that resonates well with audiences, demonstrating that personal vision can triumph in the film industry.
Overall, “Anora” showcases Baker’s distinctive quirky and heartfelt narrative style, promising to leave audiences entertained and eager to see how his unique vision unfolds on screen. The insider shots of Madison tackling doughnuts on set mirror the fun and chaos of the film, which seems poised to make a significant impact in the world of cinema.