“Babygirl,” a 2024 American erotic thriller film by Halina Reijn, focuses on the intertwining themes of power, desire, and identity.
Synopsis:
Nicole Kidman takes on the role of Romy Mathis, the high-powered CEO of a tech giant. Over the years, Romy has achieved remarkable professional success, but on a personal level, she struggles with dissatisfaction and lingering unfulfilled desires. Things spiral out of control when she starts a steamy romance with Samuel—a much younger intern played by Harris Dickinson. The relationship shifts Romy’s understanding of power dynamics and vulnerability as she starts having to reckon with certain aspects of her identity. Currently, her downfall is simmering just beneath the surface, and as the passionate romance burns bright, it threatens to consume the career and family she has built with Jacob (Antonio Banderas), her husband, alongside Esme (Sophie Wilde), her assistant. The narrative intricately explores power and control within the realms of romance and the relationships she navigates.
Cast:
Nicole Kidman as Romy Mathis: A highly esteemed CEO facing a personal crisis with her identity while being embroiled in a self-destructive infidelity.
Harris Dickinson as Samuel: An intern who begins a toxic but transformational rendezvous with his superior, laying bare her hidden personas and core conflicts.
Antonio Banderas as Jacob Mathis: Romy’s husband, whose role adds further tension and emotional complexities to the story.
Sophie Wilde as Esme Smith: An employee of Romy who is Romy’s assistant and managing the new shifts in the workplace and personal relationships.
Esther McGregor as Isabel Mathis: The Mathis’ teenage daughter, showcasing the intergenerational conflict within a family.
Vaughan Reilly as Nora Mathis: The younger daughter, further complicating the family dynamics.
Gaite Jansen as Hedda / Scarlett: A character contributing to the unfolding drama and exploration of self.
Critical Reception:
The World Premiere “Babygirl” was at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on 30th August 2024 where Nicole Kidman won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress. The film has received a lot of attention for how controversial its narrative is and the strong performances of its ensemble cast. A lot of critics praised Kidman for taking on the daring role of Romy because it required a range of emotions and internal struggle to be acted out effectively. Dickinson was also noted for his nuanced portrayal of Samuel. The treatment of power relations, especially concerning gender and hierarchy in society, set the audience members and critics in debate. The film’s showcase of tension and emotional impact was strengthened by the cinematography and soundtrack.
Availability:
“Babygirl” is set to have a theatrical release on the 25th of December 2024 and will be available for streaming on HBO Max starting 25th April 2025.
This film has now become more accessible to the public due to the company’s addition of it to their online platform which allows for an increased engagement with the film’s contemplative ideas and performances.