SW Representation in Film: Anora
The Bechdel Test is a way to measure how women are portrayed in media. At ECC we created 'The Red Light Rules' to asses portrayals of sex work in film. There are 4 questions in The Red Light Rules:
- Does the film show an understanding of choice, circumstance, or coercion?
- Does the SWer interact with another person in a positive manner, unrelated to SW?
- Does the SWer have a storyline, hobby or interest outside of SW?
- Does the film have a happy and/or non-traumatic ending for the SWer?
As part of this new series exploring sex worker representation in film, we want to share which films pass and which films fail! Anora scored a 1/4 in The Red Light Rules.
“I didn't hate this film but I also didn't love it. I wish they would have given more depth to Anora's character. It was disturbing that they literally didn't give her any positive interactions with people outside of her SW life. It reinforces the weird stereotype that SWers are these toxic or disconnected people without family or friends. It's disappointing to know that actual strippers and sex workers were consulted and the film still fell short of what I feel like it could have been.
Mainly, this movie just made me hate rich man-children. It did not offer anything new or creative in terms of the type of story being told. In the end, the film was mildly entertaining and visually appealing but not a favorite in terms of sex worker representation. One last thing: why is Sean Baker SO obsessed with sex workers???” – Mel
What did you think of Anora? And what movies do you want us to review next? Comment on our Instagram post.
