Babygirl – A Mixed Bag of BDSM Exploration, Missteps, and Overused Tropes

A high-powered CEO puts her career and family on the line when she begins a torrid affair with her much younger intern.

REVIEW:

Babygirl,” a film that attempts to delve into the world of BDSM dynamics, presents an intriguing and often conflicting narrative about power, control, and submission. While the film provides a nuanced portrayal of the submissive and dominant roles within the culture, it also falls short in some areas, leaving viewers with a bittersweet impression.

Nicole Kidman, as the submissive partner, brings a level of authenticity to her character, which could be considered a valid depiction of someone seeking release from the hyper-dominant role she occupies in her professional and family life. Kidman’s portrayal, however, feels at odds with the larger themes of her character. As a high-powered woman navigating the corporate world and managing familial dynamics with an iron fist, her transition into the submissive role with her younger, less assertive partner strains credibility. The juxtaposition between her commanding presence at work and her willingness to give up control in the bedroom is an interesting conflict, yet one that isn’t fully explored. Kidman’s portrayal is compelling but ultimately raises questions about the authenticity of the motivations behind her character’s choices.

Harris Dickinson, playing the dominant male counterpart, struggles to fully embody the power and authority required for his role. His performance, though earnest, lacks the depth and intensity necessary to convincingly carry the weight of the dominant partner. At times, he feels more like a passive participant in the relationship rather than the confident, commanding figure expected in a BDSM dynamic. While there are moments when his character shows promise, Dickinson’s performance never reaches the level needed to make the power dynamics truly palpable, making the relationship feel imbalanced in a way that detracts from the film’s impact.

One of the most grating aspects of “Babygirl” is the continued exploration of the “older woman-younger man” dynamic, a trope that has become all too familiar in recent years. Nicole Kidman, once again, plays a character involved with a much younger man, a storyline that feels repetitive.