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The year 2025 belonged to Anora. Sean Baker’s latest film took the world by storm, captivating audiences and critics alike with its deeply human characters, raw storytelling, and a masterful blend of emotional depth and sharp wit. The film didn’t just spark conversations—it dominated the awards season, sweeping five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress.
Anora is a testament to the power of independent cinema, proving once again that bold, unconventional narratives can break through and leave a lasting impact. If you were moved by Anora and are looking for similar films that explore marginalized communities, challenge societal norms, and deliver an emotional punch, here are 10 must-watch movies that will keep you thinking long after the credits roll.
1. Zola (2020)
- Directed by: Janicza Bravo
- Streaming on: Hulu, Apple TV
If you loved Anora’s unfiltered storytelling, you need to check out Zola. Based on a viral Twitter thread, this film follows a Detroit waitress who embarks on a chaotic road trip to Florida with a woman she barely knows, leading to a wild series of events involving sex work, violence, and manipulation. Like Anora, Zola is an unflinching look at the gritty realities of life on the margins, told with dark humor and a sense of urgency.
2. Shiva Baby (2020)
- Directed by: Emma Seligman
- Streaming on: Max, Apple TV
A perfect blend of dark humor and emotional tension, Shiva Baby follows Danielle (Rachel Sennott), a lost college student who unexpectedly runs into her sugar daddy and ex-girlfriend at a Jewish funeral. The film is suffocatingly intimate, capturing the weight of societal expectations, personal anxieties, and self-discovery in a way that echoes Anora. If you appreciated Anora’s mix of humor and heartbreak, Shiva Baby will be right up your alley.
3. The Florida Project (2017)
- Directed by: Sean Baker
- Streaming on: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
Since Anora is a Sean Baker film, it only makes sense to explore more of his work. The Florida Project is a beautifully raw look at childhood on the fringes of society, centered on a young girl living in a budget motel near Disney World. The film captures the innocence of childhood while exposing the struggles of poverty, much like how Anora portrays marginalized communities with compassion and realism.
4. Lady Bird (2017)
- Directed by: Greta Gerwig
- Streaming on: Netflix
If you’re drawn to female coming-of-age stories, Lady Bird is a must-watch. Starring Saoirse Ronan, the film follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson as she navigates high school, family struggles, and her dreams of escaping her small-town life. While Lady Bird’s journey is more conventional than Anora’s, both films explore the yearning for independence and self-definition. Greta Gerwig’s signature warmth and humor make this film an emotional yet uplifting experience.
5. Tangerine (2015)
- Directed by: Sean Baker
- Streaming on: Max, Apple TV
Another Sean Baker gem, Tangerine follows two transgender sex workers in Los Angeles over the course of a single chaotic day. Shot entirely on an iPhone, the film has the same raw energy and street-level realism as Anora. It’s a vibrant, fast-paced, and deeply human story that highlights the resilience of its characters despite the challenges they face.
6. Welcome to the Rileys (2010)
- Directed by: Jake Scott
- Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
A lesser-known but powerful drama, Welcome to the Rileys stars Kristen Stewart as Mallory, a troubled young exotic dancer who forms an unlikely bond with a grieving couple struggling with the loss of their teenage daughter. The film is an emotional exploration of grief, redemption, and human connection—similar to Anora’s themes of resilience and survival in a harsh world.
7. Kajillionaire (2020)
- Directed by: Miranda July
- Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
A quirky, emotionally resonant film, Kajillionaire follows a young woman raised by con artist parents who begins to question her way of life after meeting an outsider. Much like Anora, the film explores themes of identity, personal freedom, and the longing for something more, all wrapped in a uniquely offbeat narrative.
8. Thirteen (2003)
- Directed by: Catherine Hardwicke
- Streaming on: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
Few films capture the turbulence of adolescence as honestly as Thirteen. The story follows a 13-year-old girl who is pulled into a world of drugs, theft, and rebellion after befriending an older, wild teen. Like Anora, the film presents a raw, unfiltered look at the struggles of young women growing up in challenging environments.
9. Euphoria (2019 – present)
- Created by: Sam Levinson
- Streaming on: Max
Yes, it’s a TV series rather than a film, but HBO’s Euphoria is one of the most visually striking and emotionally raw explorations of youth today. Zendaya stars as Rue, a teenager battling addiction, trauma, and self-destruction, much like Anora’s protagonist. If you loved Anora’s immersive storytelling, Euphoria will provide a similarly intense and visually stunning experience.
10. SherryBaby (2006)
- Directed by: Laurie Collyer
- Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
A hidden gem, SherryBaby follows a woman recently released from prison as she struggles to reconnect with her young daughter and rebuild her life. The film is a moving portrayal of redemption and the difficulties of escaping past mistakes—echoing Anora’s themes of survival and personal reinvention.
Final Thoughts
What makes Anora so compelling is its ability to tell deeply human stories with nuance, humor, and an unflinching look at reality. If you’re looking for films that share Anora’s emotional depth, complex characters, and social commentary, these 10 films (and one TV series) should be at the top of your watchlist.
Whether it’s the chaotic energy of Zola, the dark humor of Shiva Baby, or the heartfelt storytelling of The Florida Project, each of these films brings something unique to the table. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for more thought-provoking, unforgettable cinematic experiences.
What’s Your Next Watch?
Have you seen any of these films? Do you have more recommendations for fans of Anora? Let us know in the comments! 🚀🎬
