Nicole Kidman has recently shared her excitement about her latest project, the erotic thriller Babygirl. Speaking at the Venice Film Festival, Kidman described her experience on the film as both “freeing” and “liberating,” highlighting its empowering nature for women.
Nicole Kidman’s Insight into ‘Babygirl’
Nicole Kidman has always been known for taking bold roles, but Babygirl marks a significant departure from her usual fare. At the Venice Film Festival, Kidman expressed her deep connection to the film’s themes, noting how its exploration of desire, secrets, and empowerment resonated with her.
“This film obviously is about sex, it’s about desire, it’s about your inner thoughts, it’s about secrets, it’s about marriage, it’s about truth, power, consent,” Kidman explained. “This is one woman’s story. And this is I hope a very liberating story. It’s told through a woman’s gaze … and that’s to me what made it so unique … It was freeing.”
The Role of Director Halina Reijn
A key factor in Kidman’s positive experience was working with Halina Reijn, the director of Babygirl. Reijn, known for her work on Bodies Bodies Bodies, played a crucial role in creating a comfortable and respectful environment on set. Kidman praised Reijn’s approach, stating, “I knew she wasn’t going to exploit me. However anyone interprets that, I didn’t feel exploited. I felt very much a part of that. There was enormous caretaking by all of us, we were all very gentle with each other and helped each other. It felt very authentic, protected and, at the same time, real.”
Plot and Themes of ‘Babygirl’
In Babygirl, Kidman stars as a high-powered CEO who finds herself entangled in a passionate affair with a younger intern, played by Harris Dickinson. The film also features Antonio Banderas, Sophie Wilde, and Esther McGregor. The storyline delves into complex themes of power dynamics, consent, and personal liberation, presenting a nuanced portrayal of female desire and agency.
Kidman’s Pre-Festival Nerves
Before the film’s Venice premiere, Kidman admitted to feeling vulnerable. “I felt very exposed as an actor, as a woman, as a human being,” she said. This candid reflection highlights the emotional intensity and personal stakes involved in her role.
Director Halina Reijn’s Vision
Halina Reijn’s vision for Babygirl is deeply intertwined with themes of feminism and human nature. In the film’s press notes, Reijn commented, “All of us carry a little black box filled with taboo fantasies that we might never share with anyone. I am fascinated by the duality of human nature, and this film is an attempt to shine a light, without judgement, on the opposing forces that make up our personalities. To me, feminism is the freedom to study a woman’s vulnerability, love, shame, rage and inner beast.”
Upcoming Screenings and Release
Following its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, Babygirl is set to make its North American debut at the Toronto Film Festival. The film will be officially released on December 25, 2024. This release date positions it as a potential contender during the awards season, given its provocative themes and strong performances.
Why ‘Babygirl’ Matters
Babygirl stands out not only for its daring content but also for its approach to storytelling. By focusing on a woman’s perspective and exploring complex emotional and psychological landscapes, the film contributes to a broader conversation about female empowerment and representation in cinema.
Nicole Kidman’s role in Babygirl underscores her commitment to challenging and transformative roles. With its powerful narrative and bold themes, Babygirl promises to be a significant addition to contemporary cinema, offering audiences a unique and thought-provoking experience.
Useful Links:
