Nicole Kidman’s newest movie is quite a daring endeavor, and while it’s a story she’s passionate about, she’s acknowledged that some audiences have struggled with its themes.
At 57, Kidman remains a prominent force in the film industry, known for drawing audiences even when she explores unconventional roles.
Discussing her upcoming project, Babygirl, Kidman expressed her enthusiasm for the narrative, although she admitted the filming process left her feeling ‘vulnerable’.
Written and directed by Halina Reijin, Babygirl features Kidman as a married CEO who engages in a racy romantic entanglement with her significantly younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson, all while deceiving her husband, played by Antonio Banderas.
The provocative storyline has certainly caught attention (perhaps not a choice for a family movie night), but Kidman insists it’s a narrative that needs to be told and resonates with many.
Nonetheless, some have described the film as the most ‘disturbing’ they’ve ever encountered.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she explained: “A lot of times women are discarded at a certain period of their career as a sexual being. So it was really beautiful to be seen in this way. From the minute I read it, I was like, ‘Yeah, this is a voice I haven’t seen, this is a place that I haven’t been, I don’t think audiences have been.’
“I think it’s very releasing, this film. I hope it is. I’ve had some people say it’s the most disturbing film they’ve ever seen, which I’m like, ‘Oh no, I’m so sorry.’”
The actress revealed that the film took a considerable emotional toll on her, admitting there were moments when she wanted to avoid physical contact altogether.
During a press conference about the film, Kidman elaborated that filming the intimate scenes left her feeling ‘ragged at times’ due to the lengthy takes.
In a conversation with The Sun, she shared more insights: “There was an enormous amount of sharing and trust and then frustration. It’s like, ‘Don’t touch me’.
“There were times when we were shooting where I was like, ‘I don’t want to orgasm anymore’.
“Don’t come near me. I hate doing this. I don’t care if I am never touched again in my life! I’m over it.
“It was so present all the time for me that it was almost like a burnout.”
The film is scheduled to premiere in the US on Christmas Day.