How Anora Stole the Show While The Substance Floundered Like a Barbie Knockoff

If there was any doubt about the Oscars favoring substance over style, this year’s results put that debate to rest. While Anora delivered a raw, unapologetic vision that cemented its place as an instant indie classic, The Substance felt like a Mattel-branded fever dream—high on shock value, low on resonance.

On one hand, Anora swept the major categories, winning Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), and Best Actress (Mikey Madison). The film's gritty storytelling, indie spirit, and fearless performances proved that passion and craftsmanship can still triumph over spectacle​

Meanwhile, The Substance, which promised to be a provocative body-horror masterpiece, ended up feeling like an R-rated Barbie movie gone rogue. Sure, it had its fair share of grotesque imagery and audacious themes, but in the end, it lacked the depth and staying power of Anora. Critics had hyped it up as a game-changer, but Oscar night proved otherwise.

This was Anora’s year, and rightfully so. It's not just a film, it's a statement. If the Academy keeps rewarding films of this caliber, maybe the Oscars aren’t dead after all.

This year’s Oscars were dominated by Anora, which not only led with the most nominations but also took home some of the night’s biggest awards. The film won Best Picture, and its director, Sean Baker, secured the Best Director award. Additionally, Mikey Madison won Best Actress for her performance in the film, making it a standout success of the night

Adrien Brody took home the Best Actor award, while the night also featured a touching tribute to Los Angeles in light of recent wildfires, with a charitable component to support affected communities​