Nicole Kidman received the Best Actress award at the 81st Venice International Film Festival for her role in the film Babygirl, a psychosexual thriller directed by Halina Reijn. However, the 56-year-old actress could not attend the ceremony to accept her award due to the sudden passing of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, at the age of 84.
Nicole Kidman’s Emotional Absence
On August 7, 2024, during the awards ceremony, Halina Reijn accepted the award on behalf of Kidman and read a heartfelt message from the actress. Kidman expressed deep grief over the loss of her mother, stating, “Today, I arrived in Venice but shortly after, I received the heartbreaking news that my beautiful and brave mother passed away. I dedicate this award to her.” Despite her absence, her exceptional performance in the film was widely recognized by the festival.
Babygirl: A Career-Defining Role
Kidman’s role in Babygirl captivated audiences and critics alike. The film, directed by Halina Reijn, explores themes of female desire and liberation. In the movie, Kidman plays a high-powered executive who enters a forbidden relationship with a much younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson. The intimate and intense scenes between the two actors were made with the help of an intimacy coordinator, ensuring a safe and impactful portrayal of their on-screen relationship. The film received a 7-minute standing ovation during its premiere at Venice.
Venice Film Festival’s Other Winners
In addition to Kidman’s victory, the 81st Venice International Film Festival also honored other outstanding films. The Room Next Door, directed by Pedro Almodóvar, won the Golden Lion for Best Film. Meanwhile, Brady Corbet took home the Silver Lion for Best Director for his film The Brutalist. These films, alongside Babygirl, highlighted a range of powerful themes, from friendship to personal liberation.
Fans’ Reaction and Support
Fans worldwide have shown their support for Kidman, offering condolences and recognizing her ability to balance her professional achievements with personal grief. Nicole Kidman’s loss reminds audiences of the often-painful intersection of personal life and professional success, making her win at Venice Film Festival both a triumph and a bittersweet moment.
Nicole Kidman’s award at the Venice Film Festival solidifies her legacy as one of the most versatile and talented actresses of her generation. As she mourns the loss of her mother, fans and peers in the industry extend their support, celebrating her contribution to cinema while respecting her need for privacy during this difficult time.
