Babygirl
Nicole Kidman as Romy in Babygirl
Nicole Kidman is no stranger to provocative roles, but in Babygirl, she wades into murky waters alongside Harris Dickinson in a film that’s as daring as it is divisive. The plot centres on Romy (Kidman), a high-powered CEO whose steamy affair with her much younger intern Samuel (Dickinson) threatens to unravel her career, family, and sense of self.
While the film flirts with themes of power dynamics, sexual consent, and self-esteem, it’s a surprising choice in the wake of #MeToo. Far from romanticising these issues, Babygirl leans into their complexities, exposing the fragility and flaws of its characters. It’s audacious storytelling, but does it succeed? That depends on what you’re looking for.
The Performances: Sparks and Stumbles
Harris Dickinson delivers a magnetic performance as the alluring yet enigmatic intern. His portrayal radiates power with an edge that keeps you glued to the screen. It’s Dickinson who provides the film’s emotional anchor, carrying scenes that might otherwise teeter on melodrama.
Nicole Kidman, ever the risk-taker, channels shades of her performance from Eyes Wide Shut. For the most part, she shines, embodying the turmoil of a woman caught between desire and responsibility. However, her performance hits a few noticeable dips, where the emotional intensity feels forced. It’s these uneven moments that might leave audiences questioning her character's motivations.
Erotic... or Just Awkward?
If you’re expecting a sweat-inducing, boundary-pushing thrill ride, Babygirl might leave you cold. While the marketing promises risqué drama, the reality is a tamer, more cerebral exploration of obsession and power. Sure, there are moments designed to provoke - one involving a glass of milk will linger uncomfortably in your mind - but the film stops short of genuine titillation.
The sound design, filled with ASMR-like whispers and exaggerated wet mouth sounds, aims to heighten the sensuality but often lands as distracting and cheap.
Who’s It For?
Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, Gerald’s Game, or Bridgerton will likely find Babygirl intriguing, if not entirely satisfying. Its exploration of taboo relationships, kink culture and psychological tension offers plenty to dissect, even if it doesn’t fully deliver on its erotic thriller label.
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