Nicole Kidman Opens Up About the Emotional Toll of Filming Babygirl

Nicole Kidman, 57, Says She Had to Pause Filming ‘Babygirl’ Because She Didn’t Want to ‘Orgasm’ Anymore: ‘I Hate Doing This’

Nicole Kidman has always been known for her daring roles and willingness to push boundaries in her acting career. In her latest film, Babygirl, an erotic thriller directed by Halina Reijn, she takes on a challenging role that has garnered significant attention. However, recent comments from the 57-year-old actress reveal the emotional toll that filming such explicit scenes can take on an actor.

Kidman candidly expressed her struggles with the film's intense sexual content, stating that at one point, she had to pause filming because she "didn't want to orgasm anymore" and admitted, "I hate doing this."

The Premise of Babygirl

Babygirl explores the complex dynamics of power and sexuality within a corporate environment. Kidman plays Romy, a high-powered CEO who embarks on a torrid affair with her much younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson. The film delves into themes of desire, vulnerability, and the consequences of crossing professional boundaries. As Romy navigates her dual roles as a powerful executive and a woman exploring her sexual identity, the narrative raises questions about the implications of such relationships in the workplace.

The film has been described as both provocative and daring, featuring numerous explicit scenes that challenge conventional portrayals of female desire in cinema. Kidman's performance has already earned her accolades; she won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival, where Babygirl premiered on August 30, 2024.

Kidman's Emotional Journey During Filming

While Kidman is no stranger to bold roles—having previously starred in films like Eyes Wide Shut—the emotional weight of Babygirl proved particularly challenging. In interviews, she revealed that filming intimate scenes often left her feeling exposed and vulnerable. "I had to pause because I didn't want to orgasm anymore," she said. "It was overwhelming, and I hate doing this."

Her honesty sheds light on the often-unspoken difficulties actors face when portraying sexual relationships on screen. The pressure to deliver authentic performances can lead to emotional fatigue, especially when the material is as intense as that found in Babygirl.

The Role of Harris Dickinson

Harris Dickinson plays Romy's intern and love interest in Babygirl. His character represents youthful exuberance and ambition, contrasting sharply with Kidman's seasoned CEO. The dynamic between their characters is central to the film's exploration of power dynamics in relationships.

Dickinson's performance has been praised for its depth and nuance, effectively capturing the complexities of his character's motivations. As Romy becomes increasingly entangled in their affair, viewers are drawn into a narrative that challenges societal norms regarding age gaps and authority in romantic relationships.

Critical Reception of Babygirl

Critics have had mixed reactions to Babygirl. Some praise it for its bold storytelling and Kidman's fearless performance. Nicholas Barber from BBC highlighted Reijn's gritty direction and how it deviates from typical Hollywood gloss. He noted that Kidman's portrayal carries a "top-note of distress," suggesting an internal conflict within her character.

Conversely, some reviews have pointed out that while the film is provocative, it occasionally falls into predictable tropes associated with erotic thrillers. David Rooney from The Guardian remarked that despite its thrilling elements, the film feels somewhat formulaic at times.

Implications for Nicole Kidman's Career

At 57 years old, Nicole Kidman continues to challenge herself with roles that push boundaries and explore complex themes. Her willingness to tackle such daring material speaks volumes about her commitment as an actress. However, it also raises questions about how society perceives women in powerful positions—both on-screen and off.

As Kidman navigates this new chapter in her career, she remains a formidable presence in Hollywood. Her candid remarks about the challenges of filming Babygirl reflect not only her dedication to authenticity but also highlight the emotional complexities involved in portraying female desire.

Conclusion: A Bold New Chapter

Nicole Kidman's journey through Babygirl is emblematic of her fearless approach to acting. By confronting difficult themes surrounding sexuality and power dynamics, she not only captivates audiences but also sparks important conversations about female representation in film.

As we await the film's official release on December 25, 2024, it is clear that Babygirl will be a significant addition to Kidman's impressive filmography. Her ability to convey vulnerability while tackling complex characters continues to solidify her status as one of Hollywood's most talented actresses.

In sharing her struggles during filming, Kidman invites us into the often-overlooked emotional landscape of actors working within challenging genres. As viewers prepare for what promises to be a provocative cinematic experience in Babygirl, they can appreciate not only the artistry involved but also the personal sacrifices made by those behind the scenes.