Sunday, December 29, 2024

Babygirl

 


       Written and directed by Halina Reijn, this is an erotic thriller about sexual politics and exploring one's unfulfilled sexual urges. Nicole Kidman stars as Romy, a high-powered CEO whose new intern unlocks her submissive desires. Harris Dickinson plays Samuel, the young intern that recognizes something in Romy that he exploits into an unusual affair.

         Antonio Banderas co-stars as Romy's husband of 19 years that is unaware of her desires, believing instead, that they have a very satisfying sex life. Their two teenage daughters are played by Esther McGregor and Vaughan Reilly. Sophie Wilde plays Esme, Romy's assistant, who has her own agenda when she learns of the affair.

         Ms. Kidman, no stranger to daring parts, is at her most uninhibited in a complicated role that requires a great deal of honest acting. Her chemistry with Mr. Dickinson is magnetic and early on, the film is at its most provocative. After a while however, I found myself becoming bored with their games and the direction the film was headed. Samuel's motivation is never clear and even he describes their affair as "kids playing games".

          This film is a little bit "50 Shades of Grey' mixed with "Secretary". TV show and films seem continually convinced that most people in high powered positions secretly want to be dominated in private. Maybe that's true but I'm no therapist. I will say that in this case, Ms. Kidman certainly does, and she gives a truly bold performance.

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