Nicole Kidman has returned to the Venice Film Festival, a cinematic haven she last graced 20 years ago. This time, she’s back with a bang, starring in the erotic thriller ‘Babygirl,’ directed by Halina Reijn. The film marks a significant comeback for Kidman and promises to be one of the most talked-about premieres of the festival.
‘Babygirl’ delves into the turbulent life of Romy, a successful woman grappling with a strained marriage to a theater director, played by Antonio Banderas. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself entangled in a passionate affair with a younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson. This complex dynamic threatens to unravel both her career and her personal life, making ‘Babygirl’ a captivating and edgy exploration of desire, betrayal, and the consequences of our choices.
For her grand return to the festival, Kidman chose a sophisticated look from Bottega Veneta. She donned a flattering, ladylike dress with accentuated shoulders, a style that embodies the nostalgic trends of fall 2024. Her white mules with flared heels, also from Bottega Veneta, added a touch of modern elegance. Accessorizing with Roberto Coin’s Princess Flower earrings, she completed her ensemble with a sleek, retro hairstyle that perfectly complements the character of Babygirl.
This isn’t Kidman’s first venture into erotic thrillers. In 1999, she first graced the Venice Film Festival with the captivating ‘Eyes Wide Shut,’ directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick. This film, Kubrick’s final masterpiece, also explored themes of desire and infidelity, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike. Accompanying Kidman for this unforgettable debut was her then-husband, Tom Cruise. The couple, a Hollywood power pair, became the center of attention, dazzling the red carpet with their charm and undeniable chemistry.
Looking back at their journey together, Kidman and Cruise were an iconic duo. Their undeniable connection brought ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ to life, as Kubrick sought to capture the complexities of their relationship dynamics. The filming process, however, was intense, lasting a grueling 400 days, equivalent to 15 months, a record-breaking duration. The film’s premiere came 10 years after their initial meeting in 1989, a year that also marked their collaboration on the film ‘Days of Thunder.’ Their connection was instant, leading to a whirlwind romance that culminated in a wedding in 1990, a union that lasted twelve years.
While Kidman’s journey through the Venice Film Festival started alongside Cruise, her return with ‘Babygirl’ marks a new chapter in her career. It’s a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring magnetism, her ability to captivate audiences with both her performances and her captivating presence. With ‘Babygirl,’ Kidman is set to deliver another unforgettable performance, one that promises to redefine her artistic trajectory and leave an enduring mark on the world of cinema.
