The highly anticipated film “Anora”, directed by Sean Baker and set in Brighton Beach, has been generating buzz since winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Starring Mikey Madison as Ani, the film explores the consequences of catching the eye of a wealthy club-goer named Ivan, played by Mark Eidelstein. As audiences ponder themes of love, independence, and the American dream, the costumes in the film play a crucial role in conveying the inner layers of the story.
Costume designer Jocelyn Pierce reveals the meticulous process of piecing together the wardrobe for “Anora”. From sourcing the perfect black hoodie to drawing inspiration from real-life dancers, Pierce and her team worked closely to create a wardrobe that truly represents the characters. The standout electric blue bandage dress worn by Ani in a key scene symbolizes the American dream theme present throughout the movie.
The accessories in the film, including hoop earrings, rhinestones, and choker necklaces, add a touch of sparkle and glamour to the characters. The custom jewelry, like the necklaces worn by Ivan, crafted by artist Mike Novak, and the blazer by artist Fanta, contribute to the authenticity of the characters and their backgrounds.
Working closely with lead actress Mikey Madison, Pierce delves into the process of shaping Ani’s character through costumes. Madison’s dedication to embodying Ani, from learning to pole dance to adopting a Brooklyn accent, added depth and nuance to the character. The collaborative nature of the fittings and the openness to new ideas contributed to the authenticity of the characters.
The Brighton Beach aesthetic, translated onto the screen through eclectic shops and unique styles, reflects the diverse and vibrant community. The strip club scenes, featuring real dancers from Headquarters, provided insight into the world of exotic dancing and influenced the costume choices for the film.
Despite the challenges of working on an indie film with a small team and limited budget, Pierce highlights the beauty of community collaboration and support from independent artists. The process of reaching out to local artists and brands added a layer of authenticity and magic to the costumes in “Anora”.
In conclusion, the costumes in “Anora” serve as more than just wardrobe choices; they are symbolic representations of the characters, themes, and settings in the film. Through meticulous sourcing, collaboration, and attention to detail, the costumes help bring the story of “Anora” to life on the screen.
