While it's been a huge 12 months across the board for film, 2025 really was Anora's year. Written and directed (and produced and edited) by Sean Baker, the film emerged as the most talked-about release of the year for its deeply human characters, and striking blend of emotional depth and quick wit. And it wasn't just audiences who were captivated: in no small feat, Anora swept the Oscars this week, earning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and the hotly-contested Best Actress. Its success is a testament to the power of independent cinema, proving that bold, unconventional narratives can break through, regardless of budget, and make a resounding mark on the global stage.

So, in honour of the film that captured both hearts and headlines, we’ve rounded up a list of films similar to Anora—stories that shine a light on marginalised communities, challenge societal norms, and pack an emotional punch. Enjoy!

Zola (2020)

Fans of Anora have been quick to suggest Zola (2020), directed by Janicza Bravo, as an ideal next watch. The entire film is based on a viral Twitter thread, and follows Zola, a waitress who embarks on a chaotic and at times dangerous road trip o Florida with a woman she barely knows, leading to a series of events involving sex work, manipulation, and violence. Like Anora, Zola offers an unflinching look at difficult lives, blending dark humour with raw, real-life struggles.

Shiva Baby (2020)

Directed by Emma Seligman, Shiva Baby follows Danielle (Rachel Sennott), a directionless college student who unexpectedly runs into her ex-girlfriend and sugar daddy at a Jewish funeral service. The unusual but tension-filled setting becomes the perfect place to explore themes of identity, , family expectations, and the complexity of relationships in your 20s. Much like Anora, Shiva Baby is perfectly tinged with biting humour (naturally, with Sennott involved), which works to expertly amplify the conflict and discomfort of its uniquely claustrophobic setting.

The Florida Project (2017)

This is another of Sean Baker's films, so it's only natural that it shares similarities with Anora. At the centre of the story is a group of children living in a budget motel in Florida, who become a lens through which to look at an underrepresented, marginalised part of the modern American population. It’s brimming with Baker's eye for the raw and emotional, and offers an intimate glimpse into life on the fringes of society.

Lady Bird (2017)

If it's a female coming-of-age story you're after, then look no further. The film follows Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), a high school senior navigating the ups and downs of adolescence, family dynamics, and the desire to escape her small-town life. While Lady Bird's life is a little more conventional than Anora's, both women are in desperate search of something more, and willing to stop at nothing until they get it. Like most things directed by Greta Gerwig, Lady Bird is laden with warmth, humour, and emotional honesty.

Tangerine (2015)

Another film in Baker's catalogue, Tangerine follows two transgender sex workers, Sin-Dee and Alexandra, as they navigate a day in Los Angeles after Sin-Dee learns that her boyfriend has been cheating on her. Like Anora, Tangerine brings underrepresented characters to the fore, highlighting their strength and humanity in the face of adversity, and telling their story through Baker's signature vibrant, fast-paced style.

Welcome To The Rileys (2010)

Directed by Jake Scott, Welcome To The Rileys follows a grieving couple, Doug and Lois Riley, who are struggling with the death of their teenage daughter. Their lives take a turn when they meet a troubled young exotic dancer named Mallory (Kristen Stewart), and they form an unexpected bond with her. It examines the challenges of moving forward in the face of tragedy and the powerful, sometimes redemptive connections that can emerge from those struggles

Kajillionaire (2020)

Kajillionaire immerses us in the world of two con artists, who have spent the last two decades training their daughter, Old Dolio, to follow in their ways. But the refreshingly unique story takes a turn when they meet a free-spirited woman, and the encounter sparks a series of events that force Old Dolio to question her loyalties and sense of self.

Thirteen (2003)

Thirteen, directed by Catherine Hardwicke, explores the turbulence of adolescence through the eyes of 13-year-old Tracy. When she befriends Evie, an older, rebellious girl, she is drawn into a world of risky behaviour, including drugs, theft, and promiscuity. The film captures the intense emotional and psychological struggles Tracy faces as she tries to assert her identity while dealing with the influence of her peers, her complicated relationship with her mother, and the chaotic path to self-discovery.

Euphoria (2019)

Ok, it's not a film, but HBO's Euphoria shares Anora's visually striking look at the chaotic, confusing, and sometimes painful journey of youth. Over two seasons (with a third on the way), Euphoria hones in on the lives of a group of high school students grappling with issues like identity, addiction, relationships, and trauma. At the centre of it all is Rue (Zendaya), a troubled teen who struggles with substance abuse.

SherryBaby (2006)

SherryBaby, directed by Laurie Collyer, is a poignant and gritty drama about Sherry, a woman who is released from prison after serving time for a drug-related offense, and returns to her hometown to rebuild her life. The film focuses on her struggle to reconnect with her young daughter, whom she has been estranged from during her incarceration, and to overcome the challenges of her past.

Feature image via IMDb.