In the movie Babygirl, Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson shine under the direction of Halina Reijn, bringing to life a tale of a torrid office affair that is as complex as it is captivating. This erotic drama dives deep into the messy intricacies of relationships, blending humor and emotion in a way that is both moving and darkly funny.
Set in New York, Babygirl stars Nicole Kidman as Romy, the impeccably dressed boss of a cutting-edge robotics firm. Despite being married to a passionate theatre director, played by Antonio Banderas, Romy craves something more daring. Her desires take a risky turn when a confident young intern, Samuel, portrayed by Harris Dickinson, senses her unspoken yearnings. The pair soon finds themselves entangled in a forbidden affair that jeopardizes both Romy’s marriage and her career.
What sets Babygirl apart from other erotic dramas is Reijn’s masterful exploration of the raw, unpolished reality behind the glossy façade. Unlike traditional Hollywood thrillers, where affairs are often romanticized, Babygirl strips away the glamour to reveal the chaotic, contradictory emotions that drive its characters. Romy, admired for her composure and dedication, harbors a secret life that is anything but stable. Her childhood spent in cults and communes has left her with a skewed perception of relationships, making her internal struggles all the more poignant.
Harris Dickinson’s Samuel is a fascinating mix of arrogance and awkwardness, making him an unpredictable and compelling character. His interactions with Romy are far from the smooth, seductive encounters often depicted in similar films. Instead, their affair is marked by a lurching, erratic rhythm that keeps the audience on edge. Reijn’s indie-style filmmaking eschews the typical steamy scenes for moments that highlight the awkward, often unglamorous aspects of their relationship.
Kidman’s performance in Babygirl is nothing short of courageous. She embraces the unflattering aspects of her character with a fearlessness that makes Romy one of her most memorable roles in recent years. From Botox injections to the challenges of fitting into a skin-tight dress, Kidman portrays Romy’s vulnerabilities with a raw honesty that is both relatable and refreshing.
Babygirl is more than just an erotic drama; it’s a commentary on how times have changed since the days of 1980s and 1990s thrillers. The film acknowledges the complexities of consent and the realities of modern workplace dynamics, adding layers of depth to Romy and Samuel’s dangerous liaison.
The evolving relationship between Romy and Samuel is both heart-wrenching and darkly humorous. As they navigate their double lives, their connection deepens, leading to moments of genuine romance amidst the chaos. Despite the discomfort the film may evoke, it’s clear that Reijn holds her damaged characters in high regard, portraying them with a level of empathy and respect that resonates throughout the film.
Babygirl Film Details:
- Director: Halina Reijn
- Cast: Nicole Kidman, Antonio Banderas, Harris Dickinson
- Run time: 1hr 54m
Babygirl is a must-watch for fans of Nicole Kidman and those who appreciate films that delve into the complexities of human emotions. With its blend of dark humor, raw emotion, and a fearless performance by Kidman, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression.