Mikey Madison discusses skipping an intimacy coordinator for Anora, highlighting the collaborative and clinical approach to its critically acclaimed scenes.
As discussions around intimacy coordinators become more prominent in Hollywood, actress Mikey Madison has shared her experience working on Sean Baker’s critically acclaimed film Anora. Speaking during Variety’s Actors on Actors series, Madison revealed that while she and co-star Mark Eydelshteyn were offered the option of an intimacy coordinator, they decided to forgo it, opting instead for a streamlined and personal approach.
“We decided that it would be best to just keep it small with us, and then Sean Baker, the director, and his wife and producing partner, Samantha Quan,” Madison explained. By doing so, she felt they were able to simplify the process and shoot the scenes quickly. Baker described these moments not as traditional sex scenes but as “sex shots,” emphasizing their calculated, blocked, and clinical nature.
A Comfortable and Positive Experience

Madison, who plays a sex worker in Anora, approached the role with confidence, understanding the authenticity Baker strives for in his films. “I wanted to immerse myself in that,” she said, noting that her character’s nudity felt more like a costume—part of her profession and identity. This mindset allowed Madison to view the intimate scenes as just another aspect of her job.
“The scenes were humorous, which made it an even more positive experience,” she added. Baker’s careful planning and the open discussions between the actors and the production team helped create a comfortable environment on set.
The Director’s Perspective
Sean Baker, known for his commitment to authenticity in filmmaking, shared his perspective on intimacy coordinators. Speaking with the Associated Press, he stated, “It’s a case-by-case, film-by-film decision. It should always be offered to the actors, and if they want one, then of course. But our priority as producers is always the safety and comfort of our actors.”
For Anora, Baker explained that the process was highly collaborative and clinical, ensuring no improvisation during the intimate scenes. “By the time we got to shooting, we were so comfortable that it became a very calculated process. Everything was blocked out and rehearsed in advance,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.
Critical Acclaim for Anora
The careful planning and collaborative approach seem to have paid off, as Anora has become one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year. Madison’s performance as the lead has been particularly praised, solidifying her reputation as a talented and versatile actress.
Madison herself has expressed pride in the film and her role. “To me, it was never a thought in my head to be nervous or anything,” she told The New York Times. Her confidence and dedication to the role reflect her belief in the project and Baker’s direction.