In a recent interview with W Magazine, Dutch filmmaker Halina Reijn shared how her personal experiences influenced the creation of the erotic thriller "Babygirl." The film, starring Nicole Kidman as Romy, a powerful CEO who navigates complex relationships, features scenes that draw from Reijn's own life. One particular scene involving a glass of milk was inspired by an encounter Reijn had in her thirties. Additionally, Reijn discussed the meticulous planning behind the intimate scenes and her search for the perfect male lead to pair with Kidman.
A Personal Touch in "Babygirl": From Life to Screen
In the enchanting autumn of filmmaking, director Halina Reijn brought her personal narrative to the screen with the release of "Babygirl." The movie centers on Nicole Kidman's character, Romy, a high-powered CEO who is seemingly perfect in every aspect of her life. In one memorable scene, Romy accepts a glass of milk from Samuel, played by Harris Dickinson, while at a bar with colleagues. This simple yet striking gesture intrigued audiences and critics alike. Reijn revealed that a similar incident occurred in her life during her thirties when a much younger actor sent her a glass of milk at a bar. “I drank it, and he just walked out,” she recounted, finding both humor and sensuality in the moment.
Reijn also highlighted the importance of choreography in creating authentic and safe intimate scenes. She hired a fight coordinator to ensure that the sex scenes between Kidman and Dickinson were well-executed and respectful. “It’s crucial to have someone who knows all the little tricks and makes everyone feel safe,” Reijn emphasized. This approach not only enhanced the performances but also allowed the actors to feel more confident and free during these vulnerable moments.
Finding the right male lead to complement Kidman was another challenge. Initially apprehensive about casting a young actor who could match Kidman's prowess, Reijn discovered Harris Dickinson in "Triangle of Sadness." His vulnerability and masculinity made him the ideal choice. “He has all these layers,” Reijn remarked, appreciating Dickinson's nuanced performance.
The film also addresses societal norms surrounding age gaps in relationships. Reijn and Kidman both expressed their desire to normalize diverse relationships, regardless of age differences. Kidman noted that women are often overlooked as sexual beings later in their careers, making her portrayal in "Babygirl" particularly meaningful.
"Babygirl," which also stars Antonio Banderas, is now in theaters, inviting audiences to explore themes of power, desire, and identity through its compelling narrative.
From a journalist's perspective, "Babygirl" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity in storytelling. By blending personal experiences with cinematic artistry, Reijn challenges traditional narratives and offers a fresh, relatable portrayal of modern relationships. Her approach not only enriches the film but also encourages a broader conversation about gender dynamics and age diversity in media.