Nicole Kidman

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Celebrating Nicole Kidman!

From the very beginning of her career, Nicole Kidman has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to complex, unconventional roles, showcasing both artistic courage and remarkable emotional depth.

Written by Mariane Tremblay

Some actors make great films, but Nicole Kidman makes you feel something. Whatever she's starring in. For as long as I can remember, she’s been part of the movies I’ve loved most — first as a familiar face on some of my childhood VHS tapes, and later as one of the most captivating performers I’ve ever seen. For her birthday, I decided to write a little something about her to express how much she inspires me (and many others). 

Nicole Kidman was born in Honolulu in 1967. Her passion for acting began early, inspired by Margaret Hamilton’s unforgettable performance as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz (1939). As a shy child, Kidman found comfort in the performing arts, studying drama and mime alongside her close friend and fellow actress Naomi Watts. She began her career in Australia in the 1980s, steadily establishing herself as a rising talent before gaining international recognition with standout performances in films like Gus Van Sant’s To Die For (1995).

From the very beginning of her career, Kidman has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to complex, unconventional roles, showcasing both artistic courage and remarkable emotional depth. Her performances are distinguished by a rare blend of elegance, intensity, and raw vulnerability, allowing her to fully embody her characters in ways that leave a lasting impression on audiences. Whether she's portraying a deeply troubled soul, a witch, a mother grieving the death of her child, a fiercely strong woman, or a high-powered CEO exploring her sexuality, Kidman rarely plays it safe. She embraces complexity and nuance, consistently making bold and often unexpected artistic choices. With each new role, she continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of performance and redefining what it means to be a truly great actor.

"Seeing her act for me is like an exorcism… She goes beyond ego, beyond sanity, and beyond fear... It’s not that she’s not afraid, you know, she’s super afraid, but she still goes there." - Halina Reijn on Nicole Kidman 

I grew up watching a lot of movies, but one that truly stands out in my memory is Bewitched (2005), directed by Nora Ephron. I still picture myself watching the VHS tape at my grandparents’ house, as if it were yesterday. I played it over and over, completely under the spell of its quirky charm and magical premise (at the time, I didn’t even know it was based on a series, which, by the way, has since become one of my all-time favourites). What captivated me most, beyond the witchy vibes, was the actress playing Isabel Bigelow. She was funny, effortlessly charming, and undeniably iconic (Nora Ephron even said this role was the closest to Kidman’s real personality, which I don’t find hard to believe), and as a kid, I was just captivated by her on-screen presence. But whilst this movie is objectively not one of her best, it holds such a special place in my heart — I still watch it and feel exactly the same way I did when I was six.

As I got older, I became even more fascinated by her: her choices, her presence, and her ability to completely disappear into a role (though I have to admit that I’m also deeply fascinated by her as a human). She’s not just a movie star (though she’s undeniably one of the biggest) — she’s an incredible artist and one of the most inspiring women to me.

As I started delving into her filmography, some of the films she stars in have become some of my favourites ever: Eyes Wide Shut (1999), Moulin Rouge! (2001), The Hours (2002), and more recently Babygirl (2024). Honestly, there are way more, but this piece would be endless!

Babygirl (2024)
Directed by Halina Reijn

Babygirl is a psychosexual and erotic thriller written and directed by Halina Reijn. Nicole Kidman stars as a high-powered CEO who risks her career, reputation, and family when she embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with her much younger intern. This experience forces her to confront long-buried desires, explore her sexuality without shame, and ultimately rediscover herself on her own terms.

If you know me, you know how deeply important Babygirl is to me (and if you don’t, welcome to my madness). The film offers a fresh, layered, and thought-provoking perspective on power, vulnerability, and female empowerment. It boldly challenges societal norms, exploring themes like consent, autonomy, shame, desire, and intimacy with striking emotional depth. This isn’t just a story about control or dominance; it’s a complex portrait of a woman daring to reclaim her identity, especially her sexual identity.

I honestly can’t fully put into words what this film means to me. Since the first time I watched it —nearly a year ago now — there hasn’t been a single day or week that I haven’t thought about it. Babygirl is so much more than “just another psychosexual erotic thriller.” It’s a raw, fearless exploration of women’s fantasies and the shame that so often accompanies them. I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it: I will never thank Halina Reijn enough for this film. It must have taken incredible courage to pour her own shame and desire into a screenplay, and then share it on the big screen for the world to see. I’m completely obsessed with that kind of fearless creative risk.

In one of her interviews at TIFF 2024, Reijn mentioned that Babygirl isn’t just about sexuality — it’s also about generational differences. The film highlights the contrast between Gen Z and Gen X, particularly in how each generation navigates sexuality, femininity, and identity. Gen Z may be more open and comfortable with these topics, but not every Gen Z girl was raised with the tools or freedom to explore their sexuality without judgment. Much of this comes down to upbringing—many Gen Z girls were raised by Gen X parents who themselves may still be coming to terms with their own sexual identities.

Sex education matters. The beliefs we carry — about our bodies, desire, and shame—are often passed down without us even realizing. That’s part of what makes Nicole Kidman’s character in Babygirl so powerful. She represents women of all ages, including me. There are moments when I, too, hate the "beast" inside me, hate my body, and wish it would just disappear. So I can’t overstate how much this movie means to me. You truly have no idea. My only hope is that, in the future, more women will feel safe enough to embrace their sexuality without fear, shame, or self-loathing.

Seeing Nicole Kidman take on this role was nothing short of exhilarating. She brings both fire and fragility to the screen, reminding us that women over 50 aren’t just relevant — they’re fearless, powerful, and still have so much to say. She doesn’t just carry the movie, she burns through it. Her performance is outstanding: raw, unflinching, and heartbreakingly vulnerable. It must have been incredibly challenging to film, and I truly believe she deserved far more recognition for this role. This film will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Where to watch: Prime Video (Canada), MAX (U.S), available to rent or buy on Apple TV+ and Prime Video.

Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Directed by Stanley Kubrick

Eyes Wide Shut follows Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) on a mysterious and surreal nocturnal journey through New York’s secret sexual underworld after his wife, Alice (Nicole Kidman), confesses a fantasy of infidelity. As Bill delves deeper, he encounters masked rituals, temptation, and danger, forcing him to confront the fragile boundaries of trust, desire, and reality itself.

Since its release, Eyes Wide Shut has become a cult classic. Its slow, deliberate pace and eerie atmosphere continue to captivate and provoke audiences more than twenty-five years later. Stanley Kubrick’s genius is evident in every frame, making the film feel as relevant today as it did then. In a society where sex and fantasies remain deeply taboo, people who experience unconventional feelings or desires are still often met with shame and judgment — an ongoing stigma that Eyes Wide Shut quietly exposes. The film reminds us that beneath the surface, everyone carries secrets and longings that challenge societal norms, and those desires deserve to be acknowledged rather than condemned.

The story behind the film’s production is almost as legendary as the movie itself. What was originally planned as a six-month shoot stretched into a gruelling 400-day process from 1996 to 1999, including an unbroken 46-week shoot. Kidman has openly reflected on the marathon nature of the filming, sometimes wondering if it would ever end, but also saying she would’ve stayed even longer.

Kubrick’s directing style was deeply personal and unique, fostering a special bond with both Cruise and Kidman. Nicole, in particular, has spoken warmly of Kubrick as a nurturing, even fatherly presence. "Stanley really understood Tom. And me. He said that Tom was a roller coaster and I was a thoroughbred," she recalled. Off set, she often spent hours in Kubrick’s office reading, drinking coffee, or simply chatting — an intimate contrast to his famously intimidating reputation. His freedom and trust in her as an actress shaped one of the film’s most unforgettable moments: Kidman’s monologue. 

Nicole Kidman’s extraordinary monologue is a raw, intimate confession that gets to the emotional heart of the story. It continues to resonate deeply and inspire other filmmakers. Director Halina Reijn has even described her film Babygirl as a response to Eyes Wide Shut, especially that monologue where Alice tells Bill, "If you men only knew." Babygirl explores the shame and societal pressures women face to suppress their desires and maintain a neat, acceptable facade. Both films dive into how infidelity can become intertwined with the pursuit or expression of these hidden fantasies.

Eyes Wide Shut isn’t an easy watch for everyone — it’s slow, surreal, and meticulously crafted; sometimes frustrating, but incredibly compelling. And it still is 26 years later. For those who allow themselves to dive in completely, it offers profound insights into intimacy, trust, and the shadows we all carry. I couldn’t recommend this movie enough.

And you know what? Nicole Kidman delivers the final line in Stanley Kubrick’s last film. How iconic is that?

Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on Apple TV+.

Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Directed by Baz Luhrmann


Moulin Rouge! is my favourite musical — hands down. I love absolutely everything about it. From the dazzling staging and breathtaking costumes to the unforgettable performances and soundtrack, I simply can't get enough. Every time I watch it, I'm reminded why it holds such a special place in my heart.

Set in 1899 Paris, the story follows Christian (Ewan McGregor), a young English writer who falls in love with Satine (Nicole Kidman), the star courtesan of the Moulin Rouge cabaret. Their passionate romance unfolds amid the vibrant, bohemian world of music and art, but their love is threatened by jealousy, deception, and Satine’s heartbreaking secret.

It’s one of the few musicals that genuinely makes me ugly cry — sometimes even just listening to the soundtrack is enough to get me emotional. Moulin Rouge! is a dazzling, tragic story about love, sacrifice, and the power of dreams, and it moves me every single time. I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea — the rapid editing, theatrical style, and bold musical mashups can feel overwhelming, but for me, it all comes together in the most magical way. It’s bold, unapologetically emotional, and completely immersive.

Kidman’s portrayal of Satine remains one of her most iconic roles. She brings a blend of vulnerability, magnetism, and playful charm that makes the character unforgettable. While she’s openly admitted to being nervous about singing for the role, her vocals feel honest and deeply felt, revealing a side of her talent that’s often overlooked. Whether in a tender ballad or a lighter moment, she captivates effortlessly, proving once again why she’s such a compelling screen presence.

The chemistry between Kidman and McGregor is electric. They bring Christian and Satine to life with so much heart, passion, and tenderness that it's impossible not to fall in love with them. Their voices blend together beautifully — especially in Come What May, which never fails to make me cry. And every time they've reunited over the years, my heart has burst a little all over again. It's yet another reminder of how genuine and special their connection is, both on and off screen.

Moulin Rouge! isn't just a musical I adore — it's one I feel on a visceral level, if that doesn't sound too dramatic. It's a film that has lived rent-free in my head for years, reminding me that even in the face of tragedy, love and art endure. As the film so beautifully puts it, "The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return."

Where to watch: Disney+ and available to rent or buy on Apple TV+.

The Hours (2002)
Directed by Stephen Daldry

Where do I even begin with The Hours? It’s probably one of the saddest and most poetic films you’ll ever watch.

Based on Michael Cunningham's 1998 novel of the same name, The Hours interweaves the stories of three women from different eras, all connected by Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway. In 1923, Woolf (Nicole Kidman) battles mental illness while writing the book. In 1951, Laura Brown (Julianne Moore), a pregnant housewife in Los Angeles, struggles with her sense of identity and purpose while reading it. And in 2001, Clarissa Vaughan (Meryl Streep), a New York editor caring for her dying friend, lives out a modern reflection of Woolf’s protagonist.

The film hits me deeply every time I watch it, and I can never quite put into words how it makes me feel. It reminds me why I fell in love with cinema in the first place. The Hours has broken my heart into a million pieces with every rewatch, and it still does. Every single time.

There's so much to love about this film, but sometimes words simply aren't enough. The Hours is a thoughtful meditation on longing, the quiet sadness woven into everyday life, the thoughts we leave unspoken, and the fragile beauty that can exist alongside grief. There's a melancholy that lingers long after the movie ends, one that stays with you for days.

Backed by Philip Glass's hauntingly beautiful score (one of my all-time favourites), the film explores depression, identity, love, and the quiet desperation that so often hides beneath the surface of ordinary life. Its interwoven timelines create a timeless sense of connection, showing that Virginia Woolf's struggles don't belong only to 1923 — they echo through 1951 and 2001, and continue to resonate today.

Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video.

Honourable mentions: To Die For (1995), Practical Magic (1998), The Others (2001), Birth (2004), Rabbit Hole (2010), Stoker (2013), The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017), Big Little Lies (2017-2019), The Northman (2022), but honestly, just dive into her whole filmography. There's something for everybody. 

Nicole Kidman: A Force of Change in Hollywood

In an industry where women's stories have so often been pushed to the sidelines, Nicole Kidman stands out not only as one of the greatest actresses of her generation but also as someone who's actively helping change that. Whether it's through the roles she chooses or the projects she produces, she's creating more opportunities for women to be seen, heard, and celebrated. She's reshaping the industry with courage, generosity, and an unwavering passion for storytelling. And honestly, I couldn't write something for her birthday without talking about that.

Nicole doesn't just talk about the need for change — she actively makes it happen. Through the roles she chooses, the projects she produces, and her unwavering commitment to female-led stories, she's helping reshape an industry that has too often sidelined women's voices.

What I admire most is that her advocacy isn't performative. In 2017, Nicole made a promise to work with a female director every 18 months. And instead of simply meeting that goal, she surpassed it, collaborating with 27 women directors over the past eight years as both an actor and producer. To me, that's one of the clearest examples of someone using their success to create opportunities for others. Her career isn't just defined by extraordinary performances — it's defined by the doors she's helping open for the next generation of women in film.

Some of those projects include:

This unwavering devotion to meaningful work and representation earned her the 2025 Women in Motion Award, which "honours iconic figures from the world of cinema, whose career is a source of inspiration.” Kering’s announcement perfectly captures the impact she’s had:

"A major figure in cinema, Nicole Kidman has built a career marked as much by her artistic audacity as by her virtuosity and transformative portrayals that have reshaped the representation of women on screen. From Eyes Wide Shut and The Hours to Big Little Lies and Babygirl, her work reflects a deep commitment to bold, uncompromising storytelling.

Since her 2017 pledge to work with a female director every 18 months, Kidman has exceeded that promise [...] while using her platform and production company, Blossom Films, to elevate women’s voices in film…"

We need more women like Nicole Kidman — there's no doubt about that. She's not just an icon or a legend; she's a relentless force for change, constantly using her platform to lift others up and make the industry a better place. I have so much admiration for everything she's accomplished, and I can only hope to be even a fraction as cool, talented, and passionate as she is one day.

In an industry that's still far from equal, Nicole continues to show that real change is possible. She leads with courage, generosity, and a genuine desire to make space for others. She's not only building an incredible legacy of her own but also helping pave the way for future generations of women to tell their stories and be heard.

So here's to Nicole: thank you for breaking barriers, for never being afraid to take risks, and for showing us what real strength and vision look like, both on and off the screen. You're not just an incredible artist but someone who has constantly pushed the industry forward, inspiring audiences and filmmakers alike. Because of women like you, Hollywood is slowly but surely becoming a better place, and I can't wait to see what you do next.

Happy birthday, Nicole.

Letterboxd watchlist

Photos: Allure Magazine, IMDb, Film Grabs, Getty

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