Nicole Kidman, the acclaimed Australian actress, has never shied away from challenging roles. But her latest project, Babygirl, a provocative new film by A24, pushed her boundaries in unexpected ways. Starring alongside Harris Dickinson, Kidman takes on the daring role of Romy, a powerful tech CEO caught in an intense affair with a younger intern. As the film explores the raw dynamics of power, lust, and vulnerability in a professional setting, it became an emotional and physical challenge for Kidman—one that even forced her to pause filming during its most intimate scenes.
What Is ‘Babygirl’ About? A Dive into Power and Passion
In Babygirl, Nicole Kidman portrays Romy, a successful and driven CEO of a high-profile tech company. Her character’s life takes a dramatic turn when she begins a passionate affair with Samuel, a young intern played by Harris Dickinson. The film, directed by Halina Reijn, is not just about a forbidden romance but an exploration of the complex layers of power dynamics, seduction, and personal vulnerability in the corporate world.
The storyline doesn’t shy away from the intense s***** relationship that develops between Romy and Samuel, reflecting both the allure and the dangers of such an affair. Antonio Banderas, who plays Romy’s husband, adds yet another layer of tension to this provocative narrative.
Kidman’s Experience on Set: A Test of Limits
The role of Romy required Kidman to delve into raw emotions, but it also demanded a level of physical intimacy that she had never encountered before. Kidman candidly admitted that filming the e****c scenes became overwhelming at times, even leading her to halt production.
“There was an enormous amount of sharing, trust, and frustration,” Kidman revealed. She explained that the continuous intensity of the scenes began to affect her deeply. “There were moments when I had to step back and say, ‘I don’t want to or***m anymore,’” she confessed, sharing the mental and emotional exhaustion she faced.
The intimate scenes became so demanding that Kidman occasionally felt burned out, unable to handle the constant closeness required for the role. “It was so present all the time that I reached a point where I just didn’t want to be touched,” she added, emphasizing the psychological toll of the role.
Balancing Professionalism and Vulnerability: How Kidman and Her Co-Stars Managed the Pressure
Filming Babygirl required not only intense physical performances but also a high level of emotional vulnerability. Kidman credited her co-star, Harris Dickinson, with helping create a safe and trusting environment on set. Both actors knew they had to rely on each other to navigate the scenes with honesty and mutual respect.
“There was never a day when we felt that we had to force anything,” Dickinson explained. “If a scene wasn’t working or felt uncomfortable, we’d pause and regroup.” Kidman echoed these sentiments, praising the collaborative atmosphere. “It’s about having trust—both with your co-stars and with the director,” she stated.
The Role of Director Halina Reijn: A Feminine Perspective on E****c Drama
Director Halina Reijn’s vision was crucial to making Babygirl more than just an e****c drama. Reijn aimed to break stereotypes by showcasing the complexity of female desire, power, and ambition. For Kidman, this female-led approach was reassuring. “It was about trusting Halina to protect us as actors,” she shared. Reijn’s commitment to creating a safe space was vital to filming scenes that required deep intimacy.
Harris Dickinson and Nicole Kidman on the ‘Babygirl’ movie set. Credit: Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin / Getty
Kidman further explained that Reijn’s perspective as a female director brought a different layer to the project. “When you have a woman leading such a genre, it changes the way things are approached,” Kidman said. “It felt like a jump off a cliff, but one that I was willing to take with people I trusted.”
Why Kidman Agreed to Push Her Limits for ‘Babygirl’
As one of the most versatile actresses of her generation, Kidman has never been one to avoid challenging roles. In recent years, she has portrayed a wide range of characters, from the enigmatic Celeste in Big Little Lies to the determined Grace Fraser in The Undoing. However, Babygirl presented a new kind of challenge—a blend of s***** energy and raw emotional intensity that she had not experienced before.
Kidman admitted that accepting the role was not an easy decision. “There’s a kind of surrendering involved,” she noted. “You have to let go of control, be vulnerable, and let the character take over.” Despite the physical and emotional exhaustion, Kidman believes the experience was rewarding. “It’s about exploring new territory, and that’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said.
Early Reviews: A Strong Start at the Venice Film Festival
The early buzz around Babygirl has been promising, with Kidman receiving the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival. Critics have praised her portrayal of Romy, calling it a bold and fearless performance. The film has sparked conversations about its themes of power dynamics, consent, and the ethics of workplace relationships—topics that feel particularly relevant in today’s world.
The film’s exploration of intimacy, desire, and professional boundaries has resonated with viewers, sparking debates about the complexities of adult relationships. As the premiere date nears, Babygirl is expected to generate even more discussion, especially around Kidman’s audacious performance.
Kidman’s Takeaway: Trust, Risk, and Resilience
Kidman’s journey with Babygirl has been more than just another acting gig—it’s been a personal exploration of boundaries, trust, and resilience. The actress, who has been married to country music star Keith Urban for 18 years, admitted that the role’s intense intimacy impacted her personally. “I would go home and just want to be left alone,” she confessed. Despite the mental and physical challenges, Kidman remains proud of the film and her performance.
“Acting is about taking risks,” Kidman explained. “If you’re not pushing yourself, then what’s the point? This role was a test, and I’m glad I took it.”
Conclusion: A Bold Move from Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman’s decision to take on such a daring role at this stage of her career proves her unwavering dedication to her craft. Babygirl isn’t just another film—it’s a bold exploration of adult themes and human vulnerability. While the intense intimacy of the role challenged Kidman in unexpected ways, it also showcased her ability to push beyond her comfort zone and deliver a powerful performance.
As Babygirl gears up for its Christmas Day release, it promises to be more than just an e****c drama—it’s a conversation starter about power, desire, and trust in the modern world. Whether you’re a fan of Kidman or simply curious about a film that delves into complex human dynamics, Babygirl is set to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.