Mikey Madison: from Tarantino bit part to hot tip for an Oscar playing a sex worker
- Mikey Madison stars as an exotic dancer named Ani in the film Anora, which is generating buzz around a potential Oscar nomination.
- Director Sean Baker recognized Madison's talent and invited her to lead the film, despite it being in early stages of development.
- Madison's transformative role and her experience learning Russian showcase her dedication to this opportunity, while her life has largely remained unchanged post-Cannes.
In 2023, Mikey Madison, a 25-year-old American actress, made headlines with her performance in Anora, directed by Sean Baker. Madison portrays Ani, an exotic dancer, which has already led to speculation about an Academy Award nomination. Her journey to this role began with a revelatory conversation with Baker, who recognized her potential and wanted her to take the lead even before the script was completed. This instance highlights the power of creative vision in casting decisions, fundamentally changing Madison's acting trajectory. To prepare for her character, Madison underwent rigorous training, including learning Russian, which she initially thought was daunting. Baker supported her with a curated list of literature and films about sex work, facilitating her immersion into the role. She found a profound connection to Ani, despite the character being quite different from herself, showcasing her remarkable adaptability as an actress. Additionally, Madison reflected on her journey and influences growing up, including her experiences in theater and family dynamics. Notably, watching Baker’s previous work, The Hateful Eight, with her father solidified her aspiration for challenging roles. Post-film, while there is considerable acclaim surrounding her performance, Madison maintains a grounded perspective, emphasizing that her life remains largely the same after participating in the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.