Reads an article by Rinku Ghosh in the Indian Express. She is referring to ‘Anora; which depicts a sex worker’s quest for legitimacy & job equality in society.
From Vivian Ward to Ani, Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Science has traversed an arc in recognising depiction of sex worker, from the pits of poverty , coercion & exploitation to being fatalistic survivors & now claimants of rights & service providers.
‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ a Hindi language film did a good job showing Gangubai as an influential figure in Bombay’s red light area.
From the fallen woman condemned by patriarchy waiting to be rescued by Prince Charming because she has a heart of gold, Vivian – the escort from Beverly Wilshire – now has an non identical twin.
Enough to shake the Academy jurors- who gave five Oscars to Sean Baker’s indie film. So long confined to honoring underdog stories, biopics& the horrors of the Holocaust, ‘Anora upended expectations at the Academy awards.
Yet social stigma means that the implementation of a minimum wage, paid leave, pension plan or maternity leave is far from becoming a reality.
The woman lives with it, the man goes scott free. ‘Hiramandi’ even had a character saying’ Hamare paas bhejiye. Tehjib sikha denge.’ If a scion of a rich family requires such training, where do the would -be, innocent brides stand???
‘Anora’s punchline- ‘When you give me health insurance, worker’s comp& a 401k, then you can tell me when I work” shines through the glitter. One hopes it is not just a creative selling point.
Beautifully penned & executed but the plight should be referred to. Their living should improve. Status in the society should elevate. Then we say justice has been done.
Asian Entertainment 