A Deep Dive into “Babygirl”: Nicole Kidman’s Bold and Compelling Performance Shines in This Erotic Drama

In Halina Reijn’s latest film, Babygirl, Nicole Kidman delivers one of her most audacious performances in years, presenting a raw and intricate portrayal of a woman entangled in a complex office affair. Reijn, known for her earlier work Bodies Bodies Bodies, explores the turbulent dynamics of a clandestine relationship with a mix of dark humor and poignant intensity, offering a fresh take on the erotic drama genre.

Set against the backdrop of a high-powered New York robotics firm, Kidman stars as Romy, a polished and highly successful executive. Her professional life appears impeccable, marked by her efficient management and the high regard of her colleagues. At home, Romy seems to fulfill her role as a devoted wife to her husband, Jacob, portrayed by Antonio Banderas, and a caring mother to their two daughters. However, beneath this seemingly perfect exterior, Romy harbors a yearning for something more adventurous and risky.

This desire leads her into an affair with Samuel, a young and charismatic intern played by Harris Dickinson. Unlike typical portrayals of office seduction, Samuel is a blend of confidence and awkwardness, shifting between commanding authority and hesitant charm. As their relationship unfolds, it becomes apparent that their interactions are far from the sleek, glamorous escapades often depicted in similar narratives. Instead, Reijn presents their affair with a raw, unfiltered lens that captures the messy realities of human desires and complications.

Babygirl premiered at the Venice Film Festival, and it offers a stark contrast to the glossy, polished thrillers of the 1980s. Rather than glorifying the affair, Reijn exposes the vulnerabilities and contradictions of her characters. Romy, for instance, is shown engaging in activities that reveal her hidden complexities—such as watching domination-based pornography after intimate moments with Jacob. Her tumultuous past in cults and communes adds another layer to her understanding of relationships and personal fulfillment.

The film’s portrayal of Romy’s dual life is both unsettling and intriguing. It highlights the discomfort and unfiltered reality behind the allure of forbidden relationships. There are no romanticized montages or dreamy saxophone scores; instead, Reijn opts for a gritty, indie-style approach that underscores the imperfections of her characters. Scenes such as Romy receiving Botox injections or struggling with her appearance before an important event are depicted without the usual Hollywood veneer, further emphasizing the authenticity of Kidman’s performance.

Reijn’s screenplay also reflects a shift in societal attitudes towards workplace relationships compared to the past. While Romy and Samuel’s affair is driven by a mix of dominance and submission, there is a noticeable effort from Samuel to discuss boundaries and consent, highlighting a modern awareness of ethical concerns that were less prominent in earlier depictions of similar stories.

The film’s rhythm, marked by its unpredictable and often disjointed nature, keeps viewers engaged and on edge. Despite the often uncomfortable situations and the darkly humorous undertones, Babygirl ultimately reveals a genuine romanticism. As Romy and Samuel navigate their way through their emotional labyrinth, they strive for a deeper connection and understanding of each other.

Babygirl stands out as a testament to Nicole Kidman’s daring and multi-faceted performance, showcasing her ability to delve into complex and flawed characters with depth and sincerity. Reijn’s direction and the film’s screenplay together craft a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, providing a fresh perspective on the classic themes of desire and infidelity.