Kathmandu: Independent film Anora, a dark comedy about a sex worker’s tumultuous marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch, emerged as the biggest winner at the Oscars on Sunday, claiming five awards, including Best Picture.
Directed by Sean Baker, the film also secured awards for Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actress for 25-year-old Mikey Madison.
Her win came as a surprise, as many had predicted veteran actress Demi Moore would take home Best Actress for her role in the body-horror film The Substance.
Director Sean Baker, in one of his four acceptance speeches, took the opportunity to advocate for independent cinema, urging greater support for smaller-budget films.