The film Babygirl has generated significant buzz by recording a controversial Rotten Tomatoes audience score of 55%, a surprising milestone for Nicole Kidman. Featuring notable performances from Antonio Banderas and Sophie Wilde, the story delves into the complexities of Romy’s sexual repression and her quest for self-acceptance.
Understanding Babygirl’s Audience Reception
A Year of Contrasts for Kidman
Although Babygirl has garnered a 77% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing its artistic merits, the audience score of 56% reflects a notable discrepancy in viewer sentiment. Critics such as Alex Harrison from Screen Rant have praised the film, awarding it a remarkable 9 out of 10 and commending director Reijn’s wit along with strong performances from Kidman and co-star Harris Dickinson.
Kidman’s recent filmography reveals a troubling trend: both Spellbound (with a 51% audience score) and A Family Affair (at 30%) have underperformed with viewers, signaling a growing divide between her critical acclaim and audience reception. This pattern is particularly shocking for an actress renowned for her masterful portrayal in numerous award-winning features.
| Kidman Films In 2024 | RT Audience Score | RT Critic Score |
| Babygirl | 56% | 77% |
| Spellbound | 51% | 45% |
| A Family Affair | 30% | 36% |
Throughout her illustrious career spanning nearly forty years, Kidman has exemplified versatility and courage in selecting narratives that challenge the status quo. Her willingness to embrace offbeat roles has positioned her as one of the most daring actresses of her generation. Drawn to projects like Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut and the vibrant Moulin Rouge!, Kidman’s artistic journey reflects both her commitment to innovation and the difficulties of appealing to mainstream audiences. The scores for her 2024 films highlight the delicate balance between artistic ambition and mass appeal.
Perspectives on Kidman’s 2024 Rotten Tomatoes Performance
Bold Choices Spark Important Conversations
In conclusion, while 2024 has proven to be a polarizing year for Kidman, her body of work embodies a fearless dedication to exploring unconventional and challenging narratives. Notably, Babygirl exemplifies her ongoing pursuit of complex storytelling that defies ordinary cinematic conventions.
Although audience ratings indicate some may struggle to connect with her latest work, they also spotlight Kidman’s readiness to engage with ambitious themes that provoke thought and discourse. In an industry often dominated by formulas and established franchises, her creative ventures stand out by offering unique character-driven experiences.
As observed by Harrison from Screen Rant, Babygirl encourages audiences to consider deeper narratives beyond surface-level interpretations. Kidman’s ability to captivate and challenge viewers remains a hallmark of her artistry, illustrating that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking artistic risks.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes