This review was initially shared on August 30, 2024, during our coverage of the Venice Film Festival.
Thrillers, particularly those with an erotic twist, naturally excite audiences, but Babygirl, crafted by writer-director Halina Reijn, transcends typical expectations. This erotic thriller is not only a compelling watch but one that has the potential to resonate profoundly with viewers. As the film makes its way into cinemas, it feels remarkably in tune with contemporary societal themes.
The narrative follows Romy (Nicole Kidman), a successful CEO dissatisfied with her seemingly ideal marriage, who embarks on an affair with Samuel (Harris Dickinson), her young intern. This setup touches on several current hot-button issues: explicit content in film, age-gap relationships, and the complexities of workplace romances. However, Reijn skillfully navigates these topics, intertwining them with the narrative to subvert audience expectations, which is a core element of the thriller genre.
Babygirl Offers Multifaceted Dimensions Beyond the Genre
Labeling Babygirl solely as an erotic thriller is an understatement; it encompasses elements of a relationship comedy, a workplace drama, and even hints of a coming-of-age story in its later stages. These genres create recognizable templates, but their definitions are fluid, with characters frequently transitioning across roles.
This flexibility in dynamics serves to enhance the film’s intrigue, as viewers are left guessing about which power dynamic will emerge next. Romy often seeks to be dominated by Samuel, yet her response can veer from authoritative CEO to vulnerable partner, creating a rich tapestry of interactions. At times, she exhibits a protective, almost maternal instinct towards him, particularly when their age difference becomes a topic of discussion. Ultimately, the unpredictability of these interactions is a key source of enjoyment in Babygirl.
A Showcase for Star Performances: Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson
Dynamic Acting at Its Best
This shifting of roles keeps viewers engaged, as it reflects the complexity of real human relationships, where individuals often defy simple categorization. This nuance made for a remarkable viewing experience, showcasing Babygirl as a character-driven narrative. The film demands that we engage deeply with its characters, seeing beyond their surface roles as we navigate the moral ambiguities they inhabit.
The outstanding performances by Kidman and Dickinson enhance this complexity. Kidman’s portrayal of Romy deftly conveys deep-seated conflicts, with subtle expressions revealing her inner turmoil. Conversely, Samuel’s character, portrayed by Dickinson, embodies a calm confidence that evolves intriguingly throughout the film, drawing Romy closer. Their chemistry is palpable, making their interactions captivating.
Overall, Babygirl is captivating from start to finish. While the film doesn’t shy away from serious themes, it balances them with a sharp sense of humor that facilitated laughter among the audience. At moments, we share in the characters’ experiences, while at others, we find ourselves laughing at their quirks. This intricate balance serves as a reminder that while the themes may be weighty, ultimately, the film is designed to entertain. And indeed, it does, prompting viewers to confront deeper questions along the way.
Babygirl premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is currently showing in theaters. The film runs for 114 minutes and has earned an R rating for strong sexual content, nudity, and explicit language.