Actress and producer Nicole Kidman used her connections to secure the rights to the classic INXS song “Never Tear Us Apart” for a montage scene in her new erotic thriller, Babygirl. Director Halina Reijn explained that Kidman played a pivotal role in making this scene happen, as the movie studio initially denied permission to use the song. Kidman managed to pull a few strings and get the rights to the song, which was instrumental in the film. In Babygirl, Kidman portrays a high-powered CEO who engages in a steamy relationship with a young intern, played by Harris Dickinson.
Despite the 29-year age gap between Kidman and Dickinson (he is 28), Reijn defended the casting choice in an interview with W Magazine. She emphasized the importance of normalizing relationships with age gaps in movies and breaking free from societal expectations. Reijn expressed the need to move away from internalized patriarchy and the male gaze, advocating for more diverse and unconventional relationships on screen. By challenging traditional norms and stereotypes, Babygirl aims to offer a refreshing and authentic portrayal of relationships between people of different ages.
Kidman, who plays an older woman embracing her sensual side in Babygirl, shared her excitement at portraying a character who defies societal expectations. She expressed hope that the film would be perceived as liberating and empowering for viewers. Despite some early reviews describing the movie as disturbing, Kidman saw it as an opportunity to showcase a different narrative for women, particularly those who are often marginalized and overlooked in mainstream media. The portrayal of her character as a powerful yet conflicted woman who struggles with her desires and identity resonated with Kidman and contributed to the uniqueness of the film.
The raw and honest portrayal of relationships and sexuality in Babygirl challenges conventional norms and stereotypes in the film industry. Kidman’s involvement in securing the rights to the song for a pivotal scene underscores her commitment to making the film a bold and groundbreaking work. Reijn’s defense of the age gap between Kidman and Dickinson highlights the importance of diversifying on-screen relationships and representations of love in cinema. By pushing boundaries and defying traditional expectations, Babygirl offers a fresh and compelling perspective on intimacy, power dynamics, and self-discovery in relationships.
Overall, Babygirl represents a significant departure from typical romantic movies by exploring unconventional relationships and empowering women to embrace their sexuality and desires. Kidman’s role as a high-powered CEO navigating a steamy affair with a young intern challenges stereotypes and showcases the complexities of love and power dynamics. Through her connections and involvement in the production, Kidman played an essential role in bringing the film to life and pushing for a more diverse and inclusive representation in cinema. As audiences continue to seek out authentic and relatable narratives, Babygirl stands out as a thought-provoking and boundary-pushing film that celebrates the beauty and complexity of human relationships.
