Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson ignite Venice with ‘Babygirl’
A steamy night at the Venice Film Festival
Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson turned up the heat at the Venice Film Festival with the premiere of Halina Reijn’s provocative film, Babygirl. The film, which explores the complexities of a sexual relationship between a high-powered CEO and her young intern, captivated the audience, resulting in a 6.5-minute standing ovation that continued through the credits.
A daring performance
Kidman, portraying the ambitious CEO Romy, pushes boundaries in a series of workplace sex games with her intern, played by Dickinson. This role is perhaps her most daring since Eyes Wide Shut. As the film concluded, the audience’s enthusiastic applause was a testament to the powerful performances and the film’s bold narrative.
“It’s so hot,” Kidman remarked as she greeted fans before entering the Sala Grande Theatre on a sweltering Friday night in Italy, where temperatures soared to 90 degrees. The heat outside was nothing compared to the intensity of Babygirl.
Behind the scenes
After the ovation, Dickinson was seen in the men’s bathroom, candidly sharing with a friend, “I almost didn’t sit through,” but added that he found the movie “cool.” The film, an A24 production, also features Antonio Banderas, Sophie Wilde, and Esther McGregor.
Exploring human nature
Director Halina Reijn delves into the duality of human nature in Babygirl. In the press notes, she shared, “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 judgment, 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.”
Kidman’s history with Venice
Kidman, an Oscar, BAFTA, two-time Emmy, and six-time Golden Globe winner, is no stranger to the Venice Film Festival. In 2004, she starred in Jonathan Glazer’s psychological drama Birth, which sparked controversy due to a scene where she shared a bath with her 10-year-old co-star Cameron Bright. Addressing the controversy at the time, Kidman explained, “It wasn’t that I wanted to make a film where I kiss a 10-year-old boy. I wanted to make a film where you understand love.”
What’s next for ‘Babygirl’
Following its Venice debut, Babygirl is set to have its North American premiere at the Toronto Film Festival before its December release. This film promises to be a significant talking point in the coming months, challenging audiences to confront their own hidden fantasies and the complexities of human relationships.
For those eager to get a glimpse of this daring film, you can watch the trailer for Babygirl.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, Babygirl offers a fascinating exploration of power dynamics and forbidden desires. Kidman’s portrayal of Romy is both compelling and unsettling, pushing the boundaries of what we expect from a workplace drama. The film’s ability to provoke such a strong reaction from the audience speaks to its powerful storytelling and the fearless performances of its cast.
In-depth analysis
Babygirl is not just a film about sex; it’s a deep dive into the complexities of human nature. Reijn’s direction allows for a nuanced exploration of the characters’ inner lives, revealing the often contradictory forces that drive us. The film challenges viewers to confront their own taboos and consider the ways in which power and desire intersect in our lives.
Distinctive comments
One of the most striking aspects of Babygirl is its unflinching portrayal of female desire and vulnerability. Reijn’s feminist approach to the subject matter is refreshing, offering a perspective that is both empathetic and unjudgmental. Kidman’s performance is a masterclass in conveying the multifaceted nature of her character, making Babygirl a must-watch for anyone interested in complex, character-driven narratives.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Babygirl.