Babygirl review: Kidman and Dickinson mesmerize in A24’s latest thriller

Babygirl review: Kidman and Dickinson mesmerize in A24's latest thriller

As a seasoned gamer who has navigated countless virtual worlds, I must say that stepping into the cinematic universe of Babygirl felt like a refreshing change of pace. Much like leveling up my character in an immersive RPG, I found myself drawn into Romy’s journey, her complexities, and the intricate layers of her character.

The film titled “Babygirl” by A24 follows the character Romy, a prosperous CEO, who appears to have it all – a devoted spouse, healthy children, luxurious homes, and wealth beyond measure. However, hidden beneath her seemingly perfect life is a sense of discontent in their intimate relationship, as her husband Jacob remains unaware of her unfulfilled sexual yearnings, a secret she’s long guarded due to fear of judgment.

When a young intern named Samuel (Harris Dickinson) joins the company that Romy works for, there’s an immediate attraction between them. They had crossed paths before on the streets of New York, where Samuel had calmly handled an out-of-control dog on the sidewalk, catching Romy’s eye and leaving a lasting impression. As they began working together, their mutual attraction became apparent. Initially, Romy resisted her feelings, but as Samuel persisted in his advances, she eventually gave in to her instincts.

Babygirl is a thought-provoking film with a strong message

Underneath its seemingly sensual exterior, “Babygirl” delves into complex human emotions. At its heart, Halina Reijn’s screenplay presents a thought-provoking narrative that powerfully illustrates how trauma shapes our perspectives, alters our self-image, underscores the necessity of acknowledging and overcoming shame, and emphasizes the significance of self-acceptance.

In her professional life as CEO, Romy is accustomed to wielding full authority and making decisions, while presenting the public face of the company. However, her strong exterior hides deeply personal emotions. When intern Samuel, a charming, assertive, and commanding individual, arrives and immediately perceives that Romy enjoys being guided, it unsettles her world and piques her interest. Unlike her husband, this stranger seems to have an intuitive grasp of people, but more significantly, an insight into Romy’s inner self.

Nicole Kidman delivers a standout performance as Romy, showcasing one of her most vulnerable and personal portrayals yet. She convincingly portrays a powerful leader while also revealing Romy’s softer, more vulnerable aspects. While the love story between our main characters may not resonate with everyone, the intense emotions depicted in the film have the power to connect with viewers on a deeper level. As we delve into the lives of Romy and Samuel, the movie invites us to explore their intimate world.

In the role of Samuel, Dickinson demonstrates a strong and confident demeanor that captivates, yet occasionally reveals vulnerability. This character, however, remains somewhat enigmatic to some viewers, which could invite criticism. Yet, in the film “Babygirl,” this approach effectively maintains audience interest and adds intrigue to the narrative. Furthermore, it offers a platform for a more intimate portrayal of Romy’s emotional and sexual evolution, allowing her to boldly reveal and pursue her genuine feelings.

As a gamer putting pen to paper for this Babygirl review, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the captivating chemistry between Kidman and Dickinson. During their heartfelt moments, they fearlessly plunge into their characters’ lives, delivering raw, transcendent performances that feel visionary. Their portrayals of Romy and Samuel leave a lasting impression as they navigate a fantastical world brimming with desire, trust, and dynamic power shifts – an unforgettable dance of passion and vulnerability.

Despite its passionate and alluring nature, the movie titled “Babygirl” is profoundly thought-provoking with a powerful message. It encourages us to conquer shame, embrace our genuine selves, and remain rooted in our true identity. Reijn’s third feature film exemplifies outstanding filmmaking and serves as an enlightening conclusion to the year 2024.

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2024-12-10 17:44