Sean Baker Takes DGA Awards Top Prize For ‘Anora’ – How This Could Predict Oscars

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Sean Baker has won the DGA top prize – Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film – for Anora. And if past statistics are a signifier of what’s to come, this is a major indicator for the Oscars Best Director category. “My imposter syndrome is skyrocketing right now, as well as my cortisol levels,” Baker said, as he accepted the award. “It’s such an honor to be recognized by my peers.” He thanked his directorial team, cast and crew, NEON, the DGA and his producers Samantha Quan and Alex Coco. “Obviously I’ve tortured you and I’m so sorry,” he said. “They were able to pull off a $6 million film shot on film in New York City in 2023—almost an impossibilty.” RELATED: Judd Apatow Taunts Trump and Musk During DGA Awards Monologue: “Let’s All Go Super Double Woke” Baker gave props to his my cast “that put everything into it,” especially Mikey Madison, who plays the lead role of Ani (Anora), alongside Yura Borisov, Mark Eydelshteyn, Karren Karagulian and Vache Tovmasyan, in the film about a young woman working in a New York strip club who impulsively marries a younger, rich client, only to find out he is the son of a Russian oligarch, and his family are less than pleased by the union. RELATED: ‘Emilia Pérez’ Director Jacques Audiard Includes Karla Sofía Gascón As One Of His “Beloved Actresses” In Medallion Speech “Working with [Madison] has changed the way I will be directing actors in the future, because of what she gave,” Baker said. “Hearing her incredible ideas… a year before production, what she wanted to bring to the production and what she did bring to it. [She has] an incredible career ahead.” Baker recalled knowing he wanted to be a director when he saw the burning window sequence from 1931’s Fran