Babygirl Movie Review: A Bold Exploration of Power, Desire, and Vulnerability
In this Babygirl movie review, we dive into Halina Reijn’s daring portrayal of an office affair drama that challenges the boundaries of power, desire, and vulnerability. Starring Nicole Kidman as Romy, a successful CEO who risks her entire life for a steamy relationship with a younger intern, the film peels back the layers of human emotion in a refreshingly raw and darkly humorous way. With its honest take on modern relationships, Babygirl offers viewers a captivating experience, redefining how we view passion and self-discovery.
Harris Dickinson
Harris Dickinson is a talented English actor who began his career in British television before making a notable impact in film. His breakout role came with the drama Beach Rats, which earned him a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead. He also gained recognition for his portrayal of John Paul Getty III in the FX series Trust. Born on June 24, 1996, in East London, United Kingdom, Dickinson stands at 1.88 meters tall and has an exciting future in film, with his upcoming movie Blitz on the horizon.
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman is a renowned Australian and American actress and producer, known for her versatile performances across film and television. She has consistently ranked among the highest-paid actresses worldwide since the late 1990s. Born on June 20, 1967, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kidman has had a storied career, winning multiple awards. She has been married to musician Keith Urban since 2006, following her previous marriage to actor Tom Cruise. Kidman is also a proud mother to four children. Standing at 1.8 meters tall, she has been celebrated for her work in many genres, from drama to action.
Antonio Banderas
José Antonio Domínguez Bandera, a renowned Spanish actor, is widely recognized as Antonio Banderas. He is celebrated for his diverse roles across various film genres, from action and drama to comedy and animation. Throughout his career, Banderas has received numerous accolades, including recognition at the Cannes Film Festival. Born on August 10, 1960, in Málaga, Spain, Banderas has captivated audiences worldwide with his performances. He was previously married to Melanie Griffith from 1996 to 2015 and Ana Leza from 1987 to 1996. He has one daughter, Stella Banderas. Standing at 1.74 meters tall, Banderas continues to remain active in the film industry with upcoming movies such as Paddington in Peru and Shrek 5.
Babygirl movie review
In Babygirl, Nicole Kidman stars as Romy, the successful CEO of a New York robotics firm. Romy appears to have it all: a thriving career, a passionate marriage to her husband Jacob (played by Antonio Banderas), and two loving daughters. However, despite the seemingly perfect exterior, Romy yearns for something more daring and transgressive. This yearning leads her to Samuel, a young intern at her company who picks up on her desires. Their affair unfolds in the soundproof offices of her company, leading Romy to jeopardize not only her marriage but also her entire career.
Halina Reijn, who previously directed Bodies Bodies Bodies, brings a unique approach to the erotic drama genre in Babygirl. Rather than portraying the affair as a glamorous, passion-filled escapade, Reijn strips away the gloss typically associated with such stories to reveal the complicated and messy reality beneath. The film is raw and unpolished, reflecting the imperfections of human relationships. Kidman’s character, Romy, is admired at work for being composed and driven, but Reijn quickly unveils her more vulnerable and complicated side.
After intimate moments with her husband, Romy sneaks away to watch domination-based pornography, hinting at unfulfilled desires that go beyond her stable marriage. It is also revealed that Romy had a non-traditional upbringing in cults and communes, which has likely shaped her view of relationships. These details add depth to Romy’s character, making her more relatable and complex.
Harris Dickinson’s portrayal of Samuel is equally intriguing. He isn’t just the stereotypical seductive younger man or a naive intern; instead, he embodies a blend of confidence and awkwardness, shifting between commanding and uncertain behavior. This complex dynamic between Romy and Samuel creates an affair that feels more real and layered, highlighting their vulnerabilities and struggles.
The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing the undignified realities of life behind the surface. Romy is seen having Botox injections, struggling to fit into tight dresses, and even worrying about accidents during a romantic encounter. These moments, rather than detracting from the film, add a layer of dark humor that brings a sense of relatability and authenticity to the story. Kidman’s willingness to embrace these unflattering moments results in one of her bravest and most powerful performances in recent years.
One of the strengths of Babygirl is its ability to highlight the changing landscape of relationships in the modern world. In contrast to the affair-driven thrillers of the 1980s and 1990s, where characters like Michael Douglas would engage in reckless behavior with little consideration of consequences, Babygirl takes a more introspective approach. While Romy and Samuel’s affair does involve risks, the film delves into the complications of consent, power dynamics, and even human resources policies, making it more reflective of contemporary workplace and relationship issues.
As the story progresses, the relationship between Romy and Samuel evolves in unexpected ways. The lurching rhythm of their interactions keeps the audience on edge, as their relationship is constantly shifting between moments of control and confusion. Despite the awkwardness and tension, the film ultimately reveals a softer side. Romy and Samuel, both damaged in their own ways, begin to understand each other on a deeper level, transforming their affair into something more meaningful.
Visually, the film’s indie style enhances its raw and jagged aesthetic. Reijn avoids the polished, glamorous shots often seen in Hollywood dramas, opting for more realistic and unvarnished depictions of the characters’ lives. The cinematography, along with the pulsating music by Cristobal Tapia de Veer, adds to the film’s tension and unpredictability, drawing viewers deeper into Romy’s double life.
Babygirl Release Date
Release date: 25 December 2024 (USA)
Director: Halina Reijn
Distributed by: A24
Music by: Cristobal Tapia de Veer
Production companies: A24; 2AM; Man Up Films
Conclusion
Babygirl is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores the complexities of power, desire, and relationships in a refreshingly unvarnished way. Nicole Kidman’s fearless performance as Romy is the heart of the film, making her character’s journey relatable and engaging. Halina Reijn’s raw approach to the story, combined with dark humor and moving moments, creates a film that is as uncomfortable as it is captivating. At its core, Babygirl is a story about two lost souls fumbling their way toward understanding each other in a world that doesn’t always make sense.
FAQ
Q1. What is Babygirl about?
Ans: Babygirl follows the story of Romy, a high-powered CEO, as she risks her marriage and career by engaging in an affair with a much younger intern, exploring the complexities of desire, power, and relationships.
Q2. Who stars in Babygirl?
Ans: The film stars Nicole Kidman as Romy, Harris Dickinson as the young intern Samuel, and Antonio Banderas as Romy’s husband, Jacob.
Q3. What makes Babygirl different from other films in the erotic drama genre?
Ans: Unlike typical Hollywood erotic dramas, Babygirl takes a raw, realistic approach to its characters and relationships. It strips away the glamour and focuses on the messy complexities of power dynamics and desire.
Q4. Is Babygirl only about sex?
Ans: No, while sex is a central theme, the film also explores deeper issues such as power dynamics, workplace relationships, and the evolving nature of modern relationships.
Q5. What is Nicole Kidman’s role like in Babygirl?
Ans: Nicole Kidman plays Romy, a successful CEO who is admired for her strength and composure but struggles with unresolved desires and personal vulnerabilities, leading to one of Kidman’s most daring performances.
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