Nicole Kidman Returns to Venice Film Festival with Stunning 'Babygirl' Premiere

After nearly 20 years, Nicole Kidman made a grand return to the Venice Film Festival for the premiere of 'Babygirl,' earning a prolonged standing ovation. The film will next be showcased at TIFF and released on Christmas Day. Kidman described the filmmaking process as a liberating experience.

After nearly two decades, Hollywood star Nicole Kidman made a triumphant return to the Venice Film Festival. Her film 'Babygirl' premiered to rave reviews, culminating in a seven-minute-plus standing ovation from the Sala Grande audience, as reported by Deadline.

Joining Kidman at the premiere were her co-stars Harris Dickinson, Antonio Banderas, and Sophie Wilde, along with filmmaker Halina Reijn. 'Babygirl' tells the story of a high-powered CEO, played by Kidman, who jeopardizes her family and career by engaging in a torrid affair with her younger intern. The film, distributed by A24, will next be featured at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) before its Christmas Day release in the United States.

Speaking to the Venice press corps, Kidman described the filming process with Reijn as a 'freeing' experience. She stated that while the movie is 'obviously about sex,' it also delves into themes of desire, secrets, marriage, power, and consent. 'This is one woman's story, and I hope a very liberating story. It's told by a woman through her gaze... and that's to me what made it so unique,' Kidman remarked.

Kidman attended the premiere adorned in a Schiaparelli Couture fall 2024 design, featuring a lace-up corset bodice, structured waist, sequin fringe, and intricate beading.

(With inputs from agencies.)