Mikey Madisonhas come bearing snacks.
Toddlers wobble about the play area with their moms (or nannies).
By her side is a tiny, golden-brown Chihuahua named Jam, with bright-green eyes.
I saw that you like trying interesting snacks, she says.
It would seem Ive been Googled.
And while Baker often hires non-actors for his films, Madison is no amateur.
Shes just so convincing as this tough-but-sweet Russian American sex worker, she seems like the real deal.
I think they thought that Iwasthat character.
In that film, as her character Amber (spoiler alert!)
The fight scene took eight days to shoot, and Madison did all of her own stunts.
It was pretty hardcore, she says.
I was covered in bruises by the end of filming.
That wasnt the only intensely physical part ofAnora.
A California native, Madison learned Russian and worked with a dialect coach to nail Anis syrup-thick Brooklyn accent.
She spent months in daily lessons to master lap dancing, twerking, and pole dancing.
On top of that, her training included Pilates, barre, and cycling.
Oh, and she installed a pole in her living room.
That kind of job is very psychological, Madison says.
You have to be a very intuitive person to be a dancer.
You have to be able to read people in a specific way.
(Prior to acting, Madison was a competitive equestrian.)
Her father is a major cinephile, though, who showed her classic Bond movies and Tarantino.
I saw actors being able to experience big things and having deep connections.
Ani is a sex worker, and her body is part of her work, Madison says.
I really wanted to portray this character in an honest way, without any sensationalization.
She adds that nerves were not an issue.
I wasnt the only one who was naked, especially in the club, she says.
I looked to my right and my left, and theres other naked women giving dances.
It was very casual.
I was more comfortable than I should have been, actually, at times.
Production Credits
Styling byJAMIE MIZRAHIatA-FRAME AGENCY.
Hair byMARA ROSZAKusingROZatA-FRAME AGENCY.
Makeup byMELISSA HERNANDEZatTHE WALL GROUP.
Production byPATRICIA BILOTTIforPBNY PRODUCTIONS.
Styling assistance:ALEXANDRA MOGHTADAIE.
Photographic assistance:TRAVIS CHANTARandALEXA FORD
