In “Anora”, strippers and Russian heavies are not what you expect
Many stories rely on character types. The best reimagine them
He hasn’t been around for long, either in reality or fiction, but the Russian oligarch and his entourage are already familiar figures. They splurge their petrodollars on yachts and Cristal champagne, wowing Westerners with their profligacy. The oligarch’s minder has a thick neck, dead eyes and a conscience unruffled by violence. Noirish thrillers like “McMafia” are their genre.
Explore more
This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline “Prince Charmless and the ice slipper”
From the November 16th 2024 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents
Explore the editionMore from Culture
Want to spend time with a different American president?
Five presidential biographies to distract you from the news
Los Angeles has lost some of its trailblazing architecture
How will it rebuild?
What firms are for
The framework for thinking about business and capitalism is hopelessly outdated, argues a new book
Greg Gutfeld, America’s most popular late-night host, rules the airwaves
The left gave him his perch
Astrology is booming, thanks to technology and younger enthusiasts
Gen Z is full of stargazing users
Why matcha, made from green tea, is the drink of the moment
Is it really a healthy alternative to coffee? Not the way Gen Z orders it