Nicole Kidman emerged as the Best Actress at the 81st Venice Film Festival, securing her recognition for her role in the erotic thriller Babygirl. The event, rich with celebration, took on a somber note when Kidman was unable to personally accept the accolade due to the recent passing of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman. This tragic news cast a shadow over the proceedings, prompting director Halina Reijn to read Kidman's emotionally laden statement on her behalf.
Kidman's statement, as conveyed to the audience, revealed her heartfelt grief: "Today I arrived in Venice to find out shortly after my beautiful, brave mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, has just passed." The atmosphere shifted dramatically, as audible gasps were heard throughout the crowd. Halina Reijn's heartfelt delivery underscored the deep connection between Kidman and her late mother, who significantly influenced her life and career. Kidman expressed her shock and the urgent need to return to her family, yet she also recognized the significance of the award, dedicatiNg it to her mother, whom she credited with shaping her as both a person and artist.
Reijn, accepting the award on Kidman’s behalf, concluded the poignant moment by stating, "We love you all, Nicole. Thank you," encapsulating the festival’s solidarity with Kidman during this tough time.
This year’s Venice Film Festival also marked the premiere of Babygirl, which received overwhelming acclaim, including a seven-minute standing ovation. The film delves deep, exploring complex themes as it follows Kidman's character, portrayed as a high-powered executive who risks everything by engaging in a provocative affair with her younger intern, played by Harris Dickinson. The film highlights not just the intrigue of desire but also the intricacies surrounding love, betrayal, power, and consent.
Reflecting on her work, Kidman shared her thoughts during the press interactions: "The film is obviously, yes, about sex; it’s about desire, it’s about your inner thoughts, it’s about secrets, it’s about marriage, it’s about truth, power, consent ... This is one woman’s story, and I hope it’s liberates others." Her comments indicate the film's dual nature — as both personal and universal, touching on themes many can relate to.
The festival spotlighted other noteworthy films, but Kidman's contribution to Babygirl stands out. Reviewers praised her performance, with one of the critics noting, "Kidman really goes the distance" — this could spark conversations about potential awards recognition come Oscar season.
At the festival, Isabelle Huppert, who presided over the jury, added her voice to the chorus of admiration, saying, "I thought she was quite extraordinary. It’s a very daring performance, ... not only what she does but also about the film itself." Huppert acknowledged Kidman's ability to portray both power and fragility, making her performance one for the ages. She remarkably encompassed the depth of emotions required to reveal the complexity of her character.
Alongside Kidman’s award, Pedro Almodóvar's film, The Room Next Door, won the prestigious Golden Lion, cementing its status at this year’s festival. Almodóvar's film, described as philosophical, tackles the delicacies of end-of-life decisions intertwining with the fabric of life itself. Huppert noted the film’s unique approach, stating, "He considers end of life and death like movement, something which stops and something which goes on. The film is philosophical, and he makes us think about what it means to be alive and what it means to end your life." This thematic depth resonates particularly well with audiences, ranking it high on the festival's to-watch list.
Other winners of the evening included the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize going to Vermiglio directed by Maura Delpero and Brady Corbet's The Brutalist, which captured the Silver Lion for Best Director. Vincent Lindon’s performance in The Quiet Son was also highlighted as deserving of accolades as Best Actor. The decision-making process behind these awards, as Huppert clarified, was organic and collaborative, emphasizing the rich diversity of opinion among the jury members, who enjoyed fruitful discussions and gained insights from one another throughout the process.
Going forward, Kidman’s Babygirl is set to take the spotlight again soon as it heads to the Toronto International Film Festival before landing on U.S. screens on Christmas Day. The anticipation surrounding its release suggests the film may not just be another title added to the actress's filmography but one filled with significance drawing viewers to its premise and Kidman’s unwavering performance.
This year’s Venice Film Festival, highlighted by both triumph and tragedy, gives audiences and critics alike plenty to talk about. The power of storytelling once again shown through, especially as Nicole Kidman transforms her personal grief to public art, passionately dedicates her achievements to the influence of her beloved mother, and highlights powerful narratives central to women's experiences. Each story told at the festival, from Kidman’s deeply personal performance to Almodóvar's contemplation of life’s biggest questions, continued to push the envelope of film and its captivating capacity to connect people on many levels, ensuring Venice remains at the forefront of cinematic exploration and discovery.
