“Anora” director Sean Baker, who hails from New Jersey, accepted the award by speaking about the importance of film writing, the moviegoing experience and local theaters. “So unexpected,” Baker, 53, said of the award.

In a surprising turn at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, independent drama Anora won Best Film, defeating major contenders like Wicked and Emilia Pérez, reshaping the awards season race.

Anora took home the top prize at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards. On Friday, Feb. 7, writer-director Sean Baker took the stage in Los Angeles to accept the best picture win, beating out fellow nominees A Complete Unknown, The Brutalist, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Pérez, Nickel Boys, Sing Sing , The Substance and Wicked.