Why Anora’s Final Tears in Anora Hold a Deeper Truth

Nivedita Dubey
March 28, 2025

Key Points:

Anora ends with a heartbreaking moment as Anora breaks down in tears, signifying the loss of control over her life.
The final scene can be interpreted as Anora realizing the power she had lost throughout the film’s events.
Director Sean Baker has left the ending open for interpretation, allowing audiences to form their own conclusions.

Anora‘s Emotional Ending Explained

Sean Baker’s Anora, the Best Picture-winning indie drama, follows the tumultuous journey of its protagonist, played by Mikey Madison. The film centers on Anora, a sex worker who falls into a whirlwind romance with Ivan Zakharov, the son of a wealthy Russian family. Her dreams of a new life are shattered when Ivan’s parents force an annulment, returning her to her former world, but now with deep emotional scars.

The film’s closing moments capture Anora in a deeply vulnerable state, breaking down in tears after trying to regain some control over her life. This moment carries a deeper emotional weight, reflecting both her trauma and resilience.

Why Does Anora Cry at the End of the Movie?

Anora’s tears can be attributed to several factors, both emotional and psychological:

In a short span of time, Anora experiences extreme emotional highs and lows. She goes from feeling safe and loved in her marriage to being kidnapped, chased across New York City, and forced into an annulment. The stress and fear she endured would naturally lead to an overwhelming emotional release.

Anora believed she had escaped her old life, only to be thrust back into it more broken than before. The promise of love and security was cruelly ripped away, leaving her with nothing but painful memories.

The moment Anora attempts to engage with Igor, she is trying to reclaim power over her own body and choices. However, when she breaks down, it highlights the extent to which her autonomy has been stripped away.

What Did Director Sean Baker Say About the Ending?

Sean Baker has shared insights into the meaning behind Anora‘s final moments:

He confirmed that Anora’s attempt to regain control is intentional, showing her trying to reclaim some sense of power after being manipulated and discarded. However, he also left the ending open for interpretation, allowing audiences to see Anora’s tears in their own way.