**Strippers Seek Oscar Recognition: A Film's Powerful Reflection on Their Lives**

**As "Anora" garners attention heading into the Oscars, sex workers involved in the film express hope for representation and respect within the industry.**

When Luna Sofia Miranda first approached acclaimed director Sean Baker in a New York strip club in 2022, she had no idea it would lead to her significant role in "Anora," a film now buzzing ahead of the Oscars on Sunday. Miranda, who was 23 at the time, had been intrigued to discover Baker and his wife were there to scout for talent for a movie about strippers.

Now, with the film featuring 25-year-old Mikey Madison earning an Oscar nomination for her role as a New York stripper, conversations around representation of sex workers in cinema have surged. Madison attributes part of her success to real-life strippers, whom she reached out to in order to authentically capture the nuances of her character. "They deserve respect and often don’t get it,” she noted after winning a Bafta last month and dedicating her award to the sex worker community.

The film has sparked discussions among its cast, including actresses and dancers who portray strippers, about their authentic experiences and the film's final representation. While some celebrated "Anora" for its realistic depiction of the emotional toll and societal rejection experienced by sex workers, others raised concerns about the limits of the narrative.

Edie Turquet, a former child actress turned New York student and background dancer in "Anora," initially debated taking on the role for fear the film might misrepresent the sex work industry. “Most films about strippers are either glamorized or exploitative," she stated, alluding to the shortcomings of other titles. However, upon learning of Baker’s reputation for realistic storytelling, Turquet found her interest reignited.

After joining the project, she discussed how rich the real-life dynamics of the industry are and how “Anora” touches upon the intricate realities strippers face daily, from their relationships to the emotional strains inherent in their profession. Miranda, who plays Lulu, also emphasized the film's thematic focus on heartbreak and rejection, drawing parallels to her personal experiences.

As the film raises questions about the dual perceptions of strippers as both figures of allure and the emotional complexities of their lives, many cast members are especially focused on how the narrative handles consent and character depth. Stripper and choreographer Kennady Schneider worked closely with Madison to ensure her performance was grounded in realism, reinforcing a common desire among the actors for deeper societal comprehension of their realities.

Excitement bubbles as "Anora" progresses towards the Oscars, with both Miranda and Normington set to attend the awards. They reflect on the unique juxtaposition of their glamorous Oscar aspirations against the backdrop of their everyday jobs. Miranda expressed hope that the film's potential Oscar success would signify a broader respect for sex workers in Hollywood.

“If this film wins an Oscar, I want to see that,” she asserted, underscoring the film's role as a catalyst for change in the industry.