Babygirl, directed by Halina Reijn and starring Nicole Kidman, is a provocative and daring film that delves into the complexities of power dynamics, sexual desire, and the blurred lines between submission and control. Released in 2024, this A24 production has sparked heated discussions for its unflinching portrayal of a high-powered CEO’s affair with a younger intern, blending elements of erotic thriller and psychological drama. While the film has its flaws, it is undeniably a bold and thought-provoking piece of cinema.
Plot Overview
The film follows Romy Mathis (Nicole Kidman), a successful tech CEO who seemingly has it all: a luxurious New York lifestyle, a loving husband Jacob (Antonio Banderas), and two teenage daughters. However, beneath the surface, Romy is unfulfilled, particularly in her sex life. After years of faking orgasms with her husband, she finds herself drawn to Samuel (Harris Dickinson), a charismatic and manipulative intern at her company. Their affair, marked by a dominant-submissive dynamic, threatens to unravel Romy’s carefully constructed life, both personally and professionally.
Strengths of the Film
1. Nicole Kidman’s Fearless Performance
Kidman delivers a spellbinding performance as Romy, capturing the character’s vulnerability, ambition, and inner turmoil. Her portrayal of a woman torn between societal expectations and her deepest desires is both raw and compelling. Kidman’s ability to convey Romy’s emotional complexity elevates the film, making her journey both relatable and unsettling.
2. Exploration of Power Dynamics
Babygirl flips the script on traditional workplace dynamics, presenting a female CEO in a position of power who engages in a risky affair with a younger male subordinate. The film raises questions about consent, control, and the ethical implications of such relationships in the post-#MeToo era. It challenges viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions about gender roles and power imbalances.
3. Provocative Themes
The film doesn’t shy away from exploring taboo subjects, such as BDSM and the psychology of submission. While some scenes, like Romy lapping milk from a saucer, have been criticized for their absurdity, they underscore the film’s commitment to pushing boundaries and sparking conversation.
Weaknesses of the Film
1. Lack of Depth in Supporting Characters
While Kidman and Dickinson shine, the supporting characters feel underdeveloped. Antonio Banderas’s Jacob, though charming, is relegated to a one-dimensional role as the understanding husband. Similarly, Romy’s assistant Esme (Sophie Wilde) serves more as a plot device than a fully realized character.
2. Uneven Tone
The film struggles to balance its erotic thriller elements with its deeper thematic ambitions. At times, it veers into melodrama, while other scenes feel overly clinical or detached. This tonal inconsistency can make it difficult for viewers to fully engage with the story.
3. Predictable Plot Points
While the film tackles complex themes, its narrative arc is somewhat predictable. The affair’s consequences and Romy’s eventual reconciliation with her husband follow a familiar trajectory, leaving little room for surprise.
Themes and Takeaways
1. The Complexity of Desire
Babygirl challenges traditional notions of female sexuality, presenting Romy’s desire for submission as a legitimate and deeply personal need. The film doesn’t judge her choices but instead invites viewers to consider the societal pressures that shape our understanding of desire and power.
2. The Illusion of Control
Despite her professional success, Romy’s personal life reveals her vulnerability and lack of control. The film suggests that power dynamics are rarely as clear-cut as they seem, and even those in positions of authority can be manipulated or exploited.
3. A Post-#MeToo Reflection
By setting the story in a corporate environment, Babygirl critiques the performative nature of workplace feminism and the ways in which power can be weaponized, even by those who claim to champion equality.
Final Verdict
Babygirl is a flawed but fascinating film that dares to explore uncomfortable truths about power, desire, and identity. While its uneven tone and underdeveloped supporting characters may detract from its impact, Nicole Kidman’s powerhouse performance and the film’s bold thematic exploration make it a must-watch for fans of provocative cinema.
Rating: 3.5/5