Renowned filmmaker Sean Baker, in his acceptance speech for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, expressed his concern for the survival of cinema and his hope that his latest movie, Anora, would play a role in helping theaters. Reflecting on the unfortunate daily closures of theaters around the world, Baker emphasized the importance of cinemas and their significance in his own upbringing as a moviegoer.

Baker candidly shared his distress at witnessing the current state of cinema, describing it as "very discouraging" and "very scary." Yet, he also highlighted a glimmer of hope by noting the emerging film culture in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Austin, and San Francisco. According to Baker, there are still young people who passionately desire the unique experience of watching movies in a theater.

Anora, Baker's latest film, delves into a compelling storyline about a stripper (played by Mikey Madison from Better Things) who marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Baker believes that his film, while not fitting the mold of mainstream movies, serves as a reminder to broader audiences that such diverse and thought-provoking films still exist.

When questioned about whether Anora would be released in Russia, given its Russian-heavy cast, Baker admitted the uncertainty surrounding the situation due to an embargo. He expressed curiosity about what the future holds in terms of a potential release.

It is worth noting that Anora marks the fifth Palme d'Or win in a row for NEON, the domestic distributor of the film. The movie has garnered critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 96% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Baker's acceptance speech shed light on the challenges faced by cinemas worldwide, with theaters closing down at an alarming rate. However, the filmmaker's dedication to the theatrical experience and his belief in the rising film culture in select cities inspire hope for the future of cinema. Anora, with its unique narrative and outstanding performances, stands as a testament to the diverse range of films that continue to captivate audiences.

As the film industry continues to navigate uncertain times, it is artists like Sean Baker who champion the survival of cinema, reminding us of its enduring importance and the unparallel joy it brings to film enthusiasts worldwide.