As a huge fan of classic cinema, I can’t help but be in awe of the unique and intriguing stories behind some of the most iconic films ever made. One such tale that has always fascinated me is the making of Stanley Kubrick‘s “Eyes Wide Shut,” starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.
In the 1990s, Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman’s marriage was a popular topic of conversation among the public and even captured the attention of legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick. He chose to base his erotic thriller, “Eyes Wide Shut,” on their real-life union. This controversial film, which marked Kubrick’s last project, has since been regarded as one of his finest works. However, there have long been whispers about the arduous production process and Kubrick’s unconventional directing methods, which some believe contributed to Cruise and Kidman’s eventual divorce. Despite these rumors, “Eyes Wide Shut” remains a cinematic landmark, with Kidman recently looking back on the experience fondly and sharing a meaningful message she and Cruise received from Kubrick.
In a recent conversation with The LA Times, the actress who starred in “Moulin Rouge” shared insights about her early experience working on “Eyes Wide Shut” alongside Nicole Kidman. During this project, she discussed the unique working dynamic with the notoriously detail-oriented Stanley Kubrick. He aimed to foster a collaborative atmosphere where actors felt at ease sharing their thoughts and ideas. Contrary to being viewed as a legend, he encouraged open communication and valued input on creative choices. She elaborated:
The remarkable aspect of him was his warning, “Don’t elevate me too high.” This was his primary condition. When we visited his home, we were awestruced, thinking of him as the legendary Stanley Kubrick. However, such reverence obstructs creativity. He sought authenticity and rejected sycocants. His instruction was to propose ideas freely, with everyone required to pause for at least ten seconds before voicing an objection. Hearing this, I, in my twenties, was ready to join the innovative venture, reminiscent of producing student films in Australia.
Several film directors adopt unique methods in their creative journey. For instance, Martin Scorsese lets his actors ad-lib lines during production, while Yorgos Lanthimos conducts rehearsals focusing on acting exercises to enhance performers’ comfort with physical movements. This approach is both innovative and effective, fostering a productive work environment and stimulating fresh ideas.
Due to Kubrick’s meticulous approach, a significant portion of “Eyes Wide Shut” production involved discussions rather than filming scenes. The actors appreciated being heard, as they worked with a director of such esteemed reputation. However, their patience wore thin when it came to actually bringing the script to life on set. A particularly lengthy scene was the one depicting Cruise and Kidman smoking a joint in bed. By the time they finally filmed it, both actors had become thoroughly familiar with the lines and even added some improvisation. Kidman described the process as follows:
During the initial stages of working with Stanley, Tom and I spent most of our time conversing at his house, avoiding a trip to Pinewood Studios and the sets. After several weeks had passed, we grew increasingly curious as to when we would begin filming. However, we didn’t take action just yet. Instead, we focused on getting comfortable with one another, building trust that allowed us to share ideas. For that particular scene, we improvised its beginning during rehearsals.
As a huge fan of Eyes Wide Shut, I can’t help but marvel at how prepared the actors were for some of the film’s most daring scenes. Take Nicole Kidman, for instance, who bravely bares all in the opening scene. She’s spoken openly about her comfort level during production, assuring us that she felt completely safe and protected while filming such intimate moments. And I don’t blame her – it takes two years to create a masterpiece like this, and the subject matter is undeniably captivating.
Having worked on a production that lasted for two long years of my life, I can certainly relate to the curiosity behind wanting to know what that experience was like. It feels like an eternity looking back! [Laughs.] I recall Sydney Pollack’s arrival on set, with him assuring us that he would only be there for a few days. Tom and I shared a knowing smile, thinking, “Mmm-hmmm, sure Sydney.” We knew full well that his brief visit was just the tip of the iceberg in our marathon filmmaking journey.
Despite finding the production taxing for the two main actors, the final product, “Eyes Wide Shut,” has gained a large fan base. This intriguing film continues to captivate audiences and remains a notable piece in both cinematic history and popular culture. Although not everyone’s preferred Kubrick work, it is undeniably one of his most debated films and was groundbreaking when released.
You can watch Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise in Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut,” a standout film now available for streaming on Pluto TV. For additional details about other notable movies featuring Kidman, please explore further.
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2024-07-18 03:07