Babygirl Review: Nicole Kidman’s Two-Hour Erotic Thriller Titillates

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  • Finding Sexual Fulfillment in ‘Babygirl‘

As a seasoned moviegoer who has seen more than my fair share of romantic dramas and erotic thrillers, I must say that ‘Babygirl’ stands out as a unique and daring exploration of female sexuality and desire. Nicole Kidman delivers an outstanding performance as Romy Mathis, a powerful CEO who is longing for passion and connection amidst the monotony of her life.

In a two-hour exploration of submissive desires, Nicole Kidman delves into her character’s kinks in a film titled “Babygirl” that offers a fresh perspective on the erotic themes presented in “Fifty Shades of Grey.” Halina Reijn, the Dutch director and writer, flips the power dynamics as a powerful female CEO finds herself drawn to a charismatic male intern who enjoys being dominant. The film excels in allowing the protagonist to embrace her long-suppressed sexual desires for fulfillment after years of conformity. However, it stretches too far by incorporating a supporting cast primarily to advocate for feminist workplace ideals. While this agenda is admirable, the character interactions sometimes feel contrived and unrealistic.

Romy Mathis (played by Kidman), the head of Tensile, a business specializing in warehouse automation, takes control following another sleepless night spent pretending with her husband. Jacob (Banderas), a renowned theater director, remains oblivious to the emotional disconnect in their 19-year marriage. On this particular morning, Romy, who’s usually engrossed in work or her phone, spends time over breakfast with her daughters, Isabel and Nora, at their Manhattan penthouse. Their lives also include a countryside estate complete with a heated pool, which becomes significant as the narrative unfolds.

Conference Room Liaisons

An unexpected event happening near her workplace captures Samuel’s (Harris Dickinson) attention. He finds himself immediately attracted to this charming young man. Somehow, Samuel seems to pick up on her feelings and aggressively seeks an opportunity to meet her during an orientation for new office interns. With confidence, Samuel selects Romy as his mentor. At first, she dismisses him as arrogant but eventually grants him a brief moment of her valuable time.

I couldn’t help but burst out laughing when Samuel nonchalantly said the office conference rooms are “soundproof.” Reijn, a talented actress and director known for her work in film, TV, and theater (including the amusing “Bodies Bodies Bodies”), shows a naughty side that never fades away. Samuel seems to awaken something in Romy that had been sleeping for far too long. It’s easy to imagine that Samuel is some sort of intuitive charmer who can discern within seconds that Romy is interested in what he’s offering. The absence of early conversation between them could simply be attributed to fate. Some relationships have a spark that can ignite into a roaring fire with just one spark.

In a creative blend, Reijn maintains an exhilarating rhythm throughout the story by employing diverse techniques, such as the fusion of moan-tinged techno beats and thundering classical music. Numerous fast-paced montages depict Romy’s hectic lifestyle are interwoven, showcasing her as a contemporary woman masterfully balancing marriage, children, and running a corporation, yet feeling utterly unsatisfied.

Finding Sexual Fulfillment in ‘Babygirl’

Babygirl addresses Romy’s concerns about involving an employee in illicit activities. She recognizes that their actions could jeopardize her career and marriage, but the thrill of it all is part of the appeal. She’s tired of monotony and craves freedom, which Samuel provides without making her feel abnormal. However, the story takes a turn when Samuel displays an unusual calmness and composure during their secret liaison. This calm demeanor is reminiscent of a plumber casually fixing pipes for fun.

In a similar vein to films like “Triangle of Sadness” and “Where the Crawdads Sing”, Dickinson is finding himself repeatedly cast in roles that involve romantic entanglements with older characters, which he executes convincingly. Samuel’s casual portrayal of sleeping with his superior suggests prior experience, yet Reijn avoids suggesting that seducing older women is a recurring pattern for him. Instead, the dialogue between Samuel and Romy indicates open and candid discussions about their relationship. While Samuel appears seasoned in these encounters, his character is written as simply trying out this new dynamic. It’s improbable that he would have extensive experience given the limited backstory provided. An intern can hardly be both the master and the apprentice simultaneously.

In a more casual and straightforward manner: Reijn enjoys portraying an older woman enjoying the company of a younger man in a self-indulgent way, which isn’t surprising since Hollywood has always featured older men dating much younger women. Essentially, he’s saying that Romy deserves to be satisfied too. However, it’s hard to comprehend the responses from her husband and staff when they learn about this situation, as such reactions are typically reserved for fictional narratives.

There seems to be a problem with the way Jacob and Esme (Sophie Wilde), Romy’s assistant, handle the affair. First, it’s tough to accept that the secret could have remained hidden for so long. Kidman’s gaze at Dickinson is intense, like a starving lioness eyeing an antelope steak. To most people, their romantic connection is evident. It’s understandable that Jacob might feel hurt and angry, but his reaction after the revelation seems unusual. A husband who discovers his wife’s infidelity wouldn’t typically respond in such a way. Esme, who admires Romy for her remarkable accomplishments, treats her like an untouchable idol who should be setting an example for women. Emotions get hurt and lead to irrational behavior. People often react negatively to betrayal and it’s hard to accept the situation easily.

Babygirl genuinely seeks sexual autonomy. It’s important for women to express their desires openly rather than feigning contentment. Remember, it takes both parties to dance. The underlying message is to communicate with your partner and ensure their happiness. Otherwise, keep an eye out for Samuel in the conference room.

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2024-12-13 20:31