- Babygirl stars Nicole Kidman as a high-powered CEO navigating a taboo relationship.
- Directed by Halina Reijn, the film explores power dynamics and female desire.
- Premiered at Venice Film Festival; Kidman won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress.
- Mixed critical reception, with a 70% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Nicole Kidman’s latest film, Babygirl, has stirred global audiences and critics alike. Directed by Halina Reijn, the film premiered at the prestigious Venice International Film Festival on August 30, 2024, earning Kidman the coveted Volpi Cup for Best Actress. Released widely on December 25, 2024, under A24, Babygirl is an erotic thriller that boldly examines unconventional relationships, power struggles, and societal norms.
Set in the bustling heart of Manhattan, Babygirl follows Romy Mathis, portrayed by Kidman, a trailblazing CEO of a robotics company. Romy’s seemingly perfect life—a successful career, a marriage to a theater director played by Antonio Banderas, and two teenage daughters—veils her deep-seated dissatisfaction.
Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Samuel, an enigmatic younger intern played by Harris Dickinson. Their relationship quickly escalates into a provocative exploration of dominance and submission, challenging traditional power dynamics and societal expectations.
Nicole Kidman delivers a masterclass performance as Romy. Critics have highlighted her ability to balance the vulnerabilities of her character with an intense portrayal of suppressed desires. The Times described Kidman’s role as “intense” and applauded her ability to navigate the complexities of her character’s inner turmoil. Reijn’s direction further enhances the narrative, blending humor and bold storytelling in what has been described as “darkly amusing and courageous.”
The Scene Everyone is Talking About
A standout moment in the film—an intimate scene involving a glass of milk—has captured significant media attention. Inspired by director Halina Reijn’s personal experiences, this controversial scene has sparked conversations about its artistic intent and emotional impact. Critics have called it “incredibly arousing and authentic,” adding a provocative edge to the film’s narrative.
Audience and Critical Reception
Babygirl has seen mixed reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 70% approval rating, with an average score of 6.5/10, while Metacritic rates it at 62 out of 100. Opinions vary widely—some hail the film as a bold exploration of contemporary relationships, while others critique its portrayal of gender dynamics as overly sensationalized.
Despite the divided reception, audiences have shown interest. As of January 10, 2025, Babygirl has grossed $18.9 million globally, with $16.1 million from domestic earnings. This performance underscores its appeal as a provocative and conversation-starting piece of cinema.
Kidman’s role in Babygirl continues her career-long exploration of transgressive themes. From her breakthrough in To Die For to her unsettling roles in Eyes Wide Shut and The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Kidman has consistently chosen roles that push boundaries. Babygirl is no exception, cementing her reputation as a fearless actress unafraid to delve into the darker corners of human relationships.
Babygirl is not just a film; it’s an invitation to explore the complexities of desire, power, and vulnerability in contemporary relationships. Whether hailed as a bold masterpiece or critiqued for its controversial themes, the film’s ability to spark discussion is undeniable. For audiences seeking a daring cinematic experience, Babygirl is a must-watch.