Babygirl (2024) (BLU-RAY REVIEW)
Director: Halina Reijn
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson, Antonio Banderas
RATED: R/REGION A/2:00/1080P/NUMBER OF DISCS 1
AVAILABLE FROM A24
Babygirl, directed by Halina Reijn and released in December 2024, is an erotic thriller that delves into the complexities of power, desire, and vulnerability within a corporate setting. The film stars Nicole Kidman as Romy Mathis, a high-powered CEO of a robotics company, who becomes entangled in a provocative relationship with Samuel, a young intern portrayed by Harris Dickinson. This liaison challenges traditional power dynamics and societal norms, offering a nuanced exploration of control and submission.
Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of Romy has garnered widespread acclaim, with critics highlighting her fearless and multifaceted performance. Stephanie Zacharek of Time hailed it as one of Kidman’s finest, emphasizing the depth and complexity she brings to the character. Peter Travers of ABC News echoed this sentiment, noting that Kidman’s daring approach continues to be legendary. Additionally, Nick Schager of The Daily Beast praised the film for delivering a bold and entertaining cinematic experience, largely due to Kidman’s compelling depiction of a woman on a quest for self-discovery.
Harris Dickinson’s performance as Samuel complements Kidman’s, with their on-screen chemistry intensifying the film’s exploration of power dynamics. Antonio Banderas also delivers a noteworthy performance, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. The film’s cinematography and soundtrack further enhance its provocative and immersive atmosphere.
However, Babygirl has elicited mixed reactions from critics. Xan Brooks of The Guardian critiqued the film for feeling overly manufactured, stating that despite its explicit content and shifting power struggles, the thrills seem engineered and lacking in spontaneity. Conversely, Owen Gleiberman of Variety commended the film as a candid and engaging portrayal of a blatantly unconventional relationship, highlighting its honesty and entertainment value.
The film’s bold narrative and Kidman’s standout performance have sparked discussions about female empowerment, societal expectations, and the portrayal of complex relationships in cinema. Babygirl challenges viewers to confront their perceptions of control, desire, and the intricate interplay between personal and professional identities.
In summary, Babygirl is a provocative and thought-provoking film that showcases Nicole Kidman in a role that pushes boundaries and invites audiences to explore the multifaceted nature of human relationships. While it may not resonate with all viewers, its fearless storytelling and compelling performances make it a significant cinematic work worth experiencing.
Extras
- DOLBY VISION/HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM
- DOLBY ATMOS AUDIO TRACK
- Audio Commentary with Writer & Director Halina Reijn
- “Directing Desire with Halina Reijn” – Featurette
- “Power Looks: Dressing the cast of Babygirl” Featurette featuring Costume Designers Kurt & Bart
- Deleted scenes
- BTS Photography by Niko Tavernise
- Optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles for the main feature
