In a year packed with highly anticipated films, Babygirl stands out as one of the most discussed releases. With Nicole Kidman leading the charge, this high-powered drama promised to be a bold exploration of middle-aged desire, ambition, and betrayal. However, while Kidman’s performance is undeniably stellar, the movie itself struggles to hit the mark.
Nicole Kidman: A Star in Every Scene
Once again, Nicole Kidman proves why she’s one of Hollywood’s most enduring talents. Her portrayal of Romy, a high-powered CEO grappling with her inner desires, is nothing short of magnetic. Romy’s life appears perfect: a loving husband, two emotionally intelligent daughters, and a flourishing career. But beneath the surface lies a woman yearning for something new and forbidden.
Kidman’s chemistry with Harris Dickinson, who plays Samuel, her cocky young intern, creates an electric tension. Their scenes together, whether in sleek office settings or dimly lit hotel rooms, pulse with unspoken power dynamics. Dickinson’s Samuel, however, walks a fine line between captivating and insufferable. His audacious behavior, from critiquing Romy’s caffeine habits to orchestrating provocative moments, often feels more manipulative than erotic.
A Story of Romy and Samuel: High Stakes, Low Payoff
The narrative centers on Romy and Samuel’s illicit relationship, which oscillates between thrilling and perplexing. Their first encounter—a bold dare involving a glass of milk in a bar—sets the tone for the uneasy connection that follows. Samuel’s audacity is both his allure and his flaw, pushing Romy into situations that blur the lines between consent and coercion. The story’s exploration of power and vulnerability holds promise, but it falters in execution.
For all its ambition, Babygirl asks for significant suspension of disbelief. Romy’s late-night rendezvous in hotel rooms across the city raise logistical questions. Who’s footing the bill? And how does a high-powered CEO find time for such escapades? The film also glosses over crucial emotional nuances, leaving viewers to fill in the gaps.
The Highs and Lows of Babygirl’s Style
Visually, Babygirl impresses with its sleek cinematography and stylish aesthetics. The contrast between Romy’s polished professional world and the raw, almost primal energy of her affair is striking. The soundtrack, a mix of cult classics and atmospheric instrumentals, adds layers of intrigue but occasionally feels out of sync with the narrative’s tone.
Despite its strengths, the film’s pacing and tonal inconsistencies detract from its impact. Key scenes—like Samuel’s topless dance to George Michael’s “Father Figure”—veer into awkward territory, undermining the intended eroticism. While Nicole Kidman’s Romy captivates, the lack of depth in Samuel’s character and their interactions leaves much to be desired.
Middle-Aged Yearning Meets Modern Complexity
At its core, Babygirl attempts to explore the complexities of middle-aged longing and power dynamics in relationships. Romy’s struggle to reconcile her desires with her responsibilities is deeply relatable. However, the film’s handling of these themes often feels heavy-handed. Moments of blatant symbolism and unresolved plot points diminish its emotional resonance.
The rave scene, for instance, feels shoehorned into the narrative. While it’s an opportunity to showcase Kidman’s versatility, it’s so far removed from Romy’s established character that it becomes more distracting than impactful.
Why Nicole Kidman Fans Will Still Watch
Despite its flaws, Babygirl is worth a watch for Kidman’s powerhouse performance alone. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure elevates the film. Fans of Nicole Kidman and lovers of high-powered dramas will find moments to appreciate, even if the film ultimately falls short of greatness.
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With its mix of allure and frustration, Babygirl may not be the masterpiece it aspires to be, but it’s a conversation starter—a film that, like Romy and Samuel’s affair, leaves you questioning what you’ve just experienced.