Sean Baker: In Conversation

Join Sean Baker, the multi-Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind Best Picture winner Anora, for an exclusive conversation with film critic Alexei Toliopoulos at Sydney Town Hall, as part of Vivid Minds’ Creative Trailblazers series.

One of America’s eminent auteurs, Baker is a proudly independent filmmaker known for his naturalistic yet vibrant portrayals of people living on the US’s social and economic margins, including immigrants and trans women.

His four latest recent films – Anora (2024), Red Rocket (2021), The Florida Project (2017) and Tangerine (2015) – all centre on sex workers, featuring first time actors with lived experience alongside names such as Simon Rex, Willem Dafoe and Mikey Madison.

With a knack for casting enigmatic figures, Baker’s films feel lived-in with everyday life and humour alongside struggle, allowing misrepresented communities to go beyond cliches.

While already an indie darling, Baker’s breakthrough came with Anora, making history at the 97th Academy Awards by becoming the first person to be awarded four Oscars – including Best Film and Best Director – for one film in a single ceremony. Despite newfound industry attention, Baker remains committed to making films without studio or streamer interference.

In a candid conversation, Baker will reflect on his creative process and the practical realities of crafting bold, independent films in today’s increasingly consolidated, risk-adverse industry.

He’ll also discuss how his wry and warm cinematic voice could only have formed through indie filmmaking – including shooting fast or guerilla style with no approvals or rehearsals, using an iPhone to shoot acclaimed comedy-drama Tangerine, and incorporating his actors’ lived experiences into his films.

With invaluable insights into creativity and maintaining an independent spirit, Baker’s one-night-only Vivid Sydney event is sure to inspire all filmmakers and creatives, as well as those looking to forge their own path.