Anora writer and director Sean Baker stated he’s ‘sharing’ the Oscar for best original screenplay with the sex worker community.

The writer and director – known for his work amplifying voices and experiences of those in the sex industry – took to the stage at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles to accept the award for best original screenplay.

Reflecting on how ‘crazy’ it all is, Baker went on to thank the Academy, his team alongside the ‘of course, incredible, incredible cast’ from Mikey Madison to all involved, complimenting them for ‘elevating everything’ he wrote.

He continued: “I want to thank the sex worker community – they have shared their stories, they have shared their life experiences with me over the years.

“My deepest respect, thank you, I share this with you.”

Baker previously reflected to UNILAD he was slightly taken aback by the ‘universal love and support of’ the film given its subject matter.

Anora stars Mikey Madison (Neon)

He continued: “This is my fifth film that covers the subject matter so each time I do it, it’s another individual story that shows a different aspect of sex work but hopefully done in a way that allows audiences to connect with the main character – have empathy for the main character. And remove, or hopefully help remove, the unfair stigma [surrounding the adult industry].”

Baker is quick to note the themes ‘tackled in the film are really presented to the audience in a way that is left up for interpretation’.

“I think people can apply their own histories to these things, their own politics,” he says. “I think that’s part of why I wanted to make this film – to spark discussion.”

Anora is also up for Best Picture, star Madison for Best Actor, Yuriy Borisov for Best Supporting Actor and Baker for Best Director.

At the time of writing, the film also just took home the award for Best Editing, with Baker thanking all the cast and crew but ‘three individuals’ in particular for being the only members allowed in the editing room.