“Babygirl” is an American erotic drama, directed by Halina Raine in 2024. The main roles were played by Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson.
The film was first shown on August 30, 2024 at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it received rave reviews from critics. Nicole Kidman’s performance was especially noted, who received the Volpi Cup for Best Actress. The film appeared in Ukrainian cinemas on January 16, 2025.
Plot
In the center of the story is an influential head of a large company who unexpectedly becomes involved in a passionate affair with a young intern. She understands that this decision can have serious consequences, but allows herself to plunge into a whirlpool of emotions. At first, she controls the situation, but gradually becomes a hostage to a new relationship. The young man, feeling his power over her perfectly, manipulates events, forcing the heroine to fulfill his wishes. The woman risks everything: her career, her reputation, her family. But will this relationship remain a secret, or will it soon explode into a scandal?
Working on the film
Halina Raine was inspired by classic erotic thrillers such as “Basic Instinct” and “Indecent Proposal”. She sought to create a similar story, but through the prism of a modern view of power and desire.
The role of the main character was written specifically for Nicole Kidman, as the director was looking for an actress who could reveal all the nuances of this bold story. Harris Dickinson embodied the image of a young man who uses his influence in a completely different way than the dominant characters of previous generations.
The filming process started in December 2023 and lasted until February 2024 in New York. During the premiere in Venice, the film received a 7-minute ovation, and the festival’s creative director Alberto Barbera noted that the film’s ending was surprising in its unexpectedness.
Recognition and awards
- Volpi Cup at the Venice Film Festival (Nicole Kidman)
- Gotham Award (nominations “Best Film”, “Best Leading Role”)
- National Board of Film Critics of the USA (win in the category “Best Actress”, entering the top 10 best films of the year)
- Golden Globe (nomination “Best Actress in a Dramatic Film”)
The film became A24’s most successful release in Ukraine, collecting over 10.6 million hryvnias in the first 5 days of release and attracting over 56 thousand viewers.