Washington [US], December 10: Nicole Kidman is celebrating her 20th Golden Globe nomination, this time for her role in Babygirl, in the Best Performance by a Female Actor in Motion Picture (Drama) category. Reflecting on the recognition, Kidman expressed her gratitude, highlighting how the nomination helps create buzz around the yet-to-be-released film. “I was relieved because we haven’t released the film yet. You have no idea. It’s such a help in terms of creating attention. It’s extraordinary support, and I’m so grateful,” she shared with Deadline.
Kidman also spoke about the film’s reception, noting that after its positive feedback in Venice, where European audiences embraced it, she hoped its success would extend globally. “Since then, we’ve had screenings in the UK, the US, and Australia, and the reactions, especially from young people, have been fantastic,” she added. “It’s cross-generational, and that’s something Halina really wanted.”
On her character in Babygirl, Kidman described Romy, a CEO undergoing an existential crisis and sexual exploration, as complex and beautifully written. “It’s an existential crisis told with humour and hopefully a unique vibe. It’s bold, yet accessible,” she said. Kidman also revealed how she didn’t realize the extent of the risk involved in being in every frame of the movie but is now grateful she didn’t fully understand it at the time.
Reflecting on her collaboration with the director Halina Reijn, Kidman praised her for her distinct, provocative filmmaking style, noting similarities to Baz Luhrmann in terms of classical training blended with modern filmmaking. “She has an extraordinary understanding of opera, theater, and music, yet brings it into modern culture in a unique way.”
In Babygirl, Kidman plays Romy, a successful CEO navigating personal and sexual self-discovery. She explained how her portrayal of the character evolved with input from Reijn, who also wrote and directed the film.
The film, set to debut in theaters on December 25, has already garnered significant attention, with Kidman receiving the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival and the NBR Award for Best Actress from the National Board of Review. Babygirl follows Romy, a CEO with a seemingly perfect life, struggling with self-doubt and desires, while exploring the dynamics of power and intimacy.
Kidman encouraged audiences to watch the film, promising a unique experience: “If you want something new, go see it. You’ll definitely have a reaction.” She also highlighted the film’s female perspective, offering a fresh take on the erotic thriller genre, traditionally told from a male viewpoint. Directed by Halina Reijn, Babygirl is inspired by 1980s and ’90s erotic thrillers like Fatal Attraction and Basic Instinct.