This review was initially published on March 10, as part of our comprehensive coverage of the 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival.
Exploring the Depths of Deception in Holland
Director Mimi Cave is known for her knack for storytelling where the line between reality and illusion blurs. Following her acclaimed directorial debut in Fresh, which transforms an innocuous grocery store encounter into a chilling exploration of cannibalism, she returns with her sophomore feature, Holland. This time, she enlists Nicole Kidman to portray Nancy Vandergroot, a seemingly content homemaker from Holland, Michigan, whose tranquil existence is shattered by a life-altering secret.
Cave expertly crafts a vibrant, dream-like representation of Holland, emphasizing its picturesque landscapes filled with tulip fields and charming, cottage-like residences. However, beneath this facade of bliss lies a darkness that pulls Nancy into unforeseen depths, particularly as she grapples with the suspicion that her husband, Fred (Matthew Macfadyen), may be unfaithful.
The Transition from Suburban Bliss to Surreal Mystery
Initially, Holland conveys the essence of a suburban melodrama, gradually morphing into a gripping psychological thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Cave’s confident direction envelopes viewers in a sickly sweet ambiance, ultimately culminating in a riveting narrative that showcases Kidman’s exceptional talent. Despite some narrative elements lacking momentum, Kidman’s performance is nothing short of captivating, propelling the film to its conclusion.
Unveiling the Disturbing Underbelly
From the outset, the atmosphere of Holland feels disquieting. The town, with its Dutch-inspired architecture, resembles a theme park, where homes appear more like cardboard cutouts and tulips seem artificially constructed—projecting an eerie sense of timelessness. This surreal ambiance is amplified by a sizeable replica train set in the Vandergroot garage, meticulously managed by Fred.
Nancy embodies a sense of disconnection, drifting through her routines as a housewife and teacher, while moments of genuine joy feel tinged with a haunting quality. Her happy existence—creating meals, nurturing her son Harry (Jude Hill), and bidding Fred farewell as he departs on business trips—often feels like a scripted performance.
Kidman serves as the emotional nucleus of Holland, delivering a performance that resonates with echoes of her roles in To Die For and The Stepford Wives. Highlights of the film emerge as her character’s dynamic with fellow teacher Dave (Gael Garcia Bernal) develops, gracefully transitioning from comedic undertones to a caper-like quest for truth.
Cave’s film navigates diverse genres; however, the true challenge lies in balancing the lead performance with the film’s tonal shifts. Kidman has proven to be one of Hollywood’s most prolific talents, contributing to an impressive portfolio that includes numerous films and television shows since 2018—demonstrating her versatility across various cinematic landscapes.
As Holland approaches its climax, it unveils disturbing elements that subvert the initial charm, plunging the story into grotesque territory. The juxtaposition of unsettling imagery with the film’s visually inviting aesthetic creates a compelling tension, though one might crave a deeper exploration of the darkness concealed beneath the idyllic surface of this town.
Despite its narrative imperfections—particularly the elongated first act and a rushed conclusion—Kidman’s compelling performance carries the film to its finish. Given Cave’s creative vision, Holland stands as a testament to her potential as a director worth following in the future.
Holland premiered at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival and is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.