On February 21, 2025, the film "Babygirl" made its debut, stirring conversations surrounding its provocative exploration of power dynamics, desire, and control. Under the direction of Halina Reijn, the erotic thriller stars Nicole Kidman as Romy, the ambitious CEO of automation company APC, who navigates her desire for dominance and vulnerability through her clandestine affair with Samuel, portrayed by Harris Dickinson.
Set against the backdrop of New York City, "Babygirl" introduces viewers to Romy, whose life appears picture-perfect with her high-powered career, posh home, and financially secure marriage to theater director Jacob (Antonio Banderas). Yet, underneath her poised exterior lies a yearning for something her structured life can't provide. This tension sets the stage for her unexpected connection with Samuel, an intern at her company who challenges the norms of their professional relationship.
The film opens with Romy experiencing pleasure both with her husband and alone, hinting at her dissatisfaction. Following this, the story thrusts Romy and Samuel together after he calms her fear of a loose dog on the street. Samuel’s confidence and insouciance toward Romy’s authoritative position lead to flirtations and eventual sexual exploration between them. The contrasting elements of their affair create potent waves, illustrating how the balance of power sways back and forth.
“Weakness is not a bad word,” the promo director states, reflecting on the film’s contention with vulnerability and the societal pressures faced by women, particularly those wielding authority. Romy’s struggle with this vulnerability is evident as she grapples with her desires, feeling compelled simultaneously to exert control and surrender to Samuel’s allure.
Interestingly, as the affair develops, the film paints Samuel as both seductive and conniving. He wields his youth and charm to navigate the intricacies of their relationship, inviting Romy to explore levels of intimacy beyond her comfort zone. Notably, he asserts, “I think you like to be told what to do,” pointing to the submissive tendencies she begins to embrace.
Critics have responded with mixed feelings. Nelson Acosta of KoiMoi praised the performances, acknowledging, “Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson are amazing performers,” but he also notes significant pitfalls. The film’s lack of meaningful resolution or catharsis becomes apparent, with the narrative culminating to forceful conclusions rather than natural revelations. Acosta rightly states, “the intimate scenes are there to shock some audience members, but they get repetitive at one point.”
Through elements reminiscent of erotic thrillers from the late '80s and '90s—reflecting inspirations from directors like Paul Verhoeven and Adrian Lyne—"Babygirl" attempts to straddle the line between cinematic flattery and critique of gender roles. Yet, where past films of the genre depicted overt exploitation or male gaze, Reijn strives to add depth to Romy’s character, though some believe it remains elusive.
Visually, the film is impressive, laced with moody cinematography complemented by songs from the era, such as George Michael's “Father Figure” and INXS's “Never Tear Us Apart.” These choices serve to set the tone, but they are juxtaposed with sudden tonal shifts, at times causing confusion for viewers.
Despite its attempts to explore complex themes, many feel the film sometimes loses traction, raising questions about consent, manipulation, and power but failing to deliver clear answers. This inherent ambiguity appeals to some, leaving others frustrated.
The supporting roles of Jacob and Esme (Sophie Wilde) introduce additional layers to the story, yet their potential remains largely unfulfilled, appearing secondary to the central narrative of Romy and Samuel. Jacob’s obliviousness to Romy’s shifting affections shows how the repercussions of their affair extend beyond mere romance, cutting to the core of trust and fidelity.
Overall, "Babygirl" is positioned as a thought-provoking yet uneven erotic thriller. Its combination of strong performances and thematic boldness allows it to engage audiences, yet its narrative inconsistencies and pacing challenges hinder it from achieving its full potential. Watch it if you’re already captivated by Kidman's starred presence, or else it may be best to let this one pass by.