‘Babygirl’ Director Halina Reijn Had No Problems with Directing Intimate Scenes

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As a seasoned movie critic with a penchant for the provocative and a soft spot for the erotic drama genre, I must say that Halina Reijn‘s upcoming film, “Babygirl,” has piqued my interest in an intriguing manner. Reijn’s extensive experience in the genre, as both an actress and a director, lends a unique perspective to her work, making her a veritable erotic drama completist, if you will.

Her candid interview with the Los Angeles Times offers a fascinating glimpse into her creative process, particularly her appreciation for the genre’s iconic films like “9½ Weeks” and “Basic Instinct.” It is refreshing to see a director who not only embraces but also playfully subverts the tropes of the erotic thriller.

What I find most compelling, however, is Reijn’s approach to directing intimate scenes. Her experience as an actress undoubtedly informs her ability to create emotionally charged moments that feel authentic and unforced. Her dedication to preparation and attention to detail, ensuring both cast and crew are comfortable during filming, is commendable.

In a genre often criticized for its shallow portrayals of complex relationships, Reijn’s commitment to exploring the dynamics of power, desire, and consent in “Babygirl” promises a thought-provoking experience that transcends the typical boundaries of the erotic thriller.

And now, for a bit of levity, let us remember that at its heart, “Babygirl” is still an erotic thriller. So, if you’re expecting a deep dive into the intricacies of corporate finance or a nuanced exploration of the internship experience, you might want to adjust your expectations—or perhaps that’s just another trope being subverted!

Under the guidance of director Halina Reijn, the film titled Babygirl delves into the intricate relationships that unfold when Romy (played by Nicole Kidman), an older CEO, finds herself involved in a workplace romance with Samuel (Harris Dickinson), a charming and youthful intern at her company.

The movie is set to address a highly debated issue in an unambiguous manner, and you might anticipate some intense, romantic scenes featuring Nicole Kidman and her younger costar.

With the forthcoming premiere of the film in mind, Halina Reijn recently had an engaging conversation with the Los Angeles Times. During this chat, she shared intriguing insights about the movie and how her personal history working on erotic films contributed to her work on “Babygirl.” Given the anticipated success of the film, we thought it would be captivating to share some background details about this upcoming erotic thriller!

The discussion delved into various themes, many of which centered around Reijn’s fondness for the genre.

You’re a self-declared erotic drama completist. Name some favorites.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’ve savored every frame of “9 1/2 Weeks” and “Indecent Proposal.” These films have been my companions, validating my deepest, darkest sexual imaginings. Yet, their conclusions often left me wanting more, feeling somewhat underwhelmed.

However, Paul Verhoeven remains a guiding force in my cinematic journey. But I must confess, “Basic Instinct” seems overly sexist to me. Nonetheless, the thrill of creating a movie that challenges conventional tropes was nothing short of exhilarating.

For example?

In that moment when Nicole watches as Harris dances, it’s strikingly reminiscent of Mickey Rourke admiring Kim Basinger dance in the movie “9 1/2 Weeks.” The atmosphere of the scene, though, is more akin to the club setting from “Basic Instinct,” but with my unique spin on it.

Source: Los Angeles Times

Apart from her practical experience on the Babygirl set, it’s worth noting how her passion for the genre and personal involvement contributed to the film’s direction.

Did you research how to direct a sex scene?

In the course of my acting career, I’ve found myself in numerous productions that made me feel incredibly comfortable. However, even emotionally intimate scenes can be as awkward as physically intimate ones. The key is thorough preparation and a well-thought-out strategy. For instance, during the initial love scene, some shots were taken without Antonio present because it was just a close-up of [Nicole]. To make her feel secure, I’d position myself very near to her. What I disliked most was when a director would say, “Alright, now you two make love. Just improvise.” This is how I felt as an actress throughout my career.

Source: Los Angeles Times

Having gone through countless interviews and having spent years in the music industry, I strongly recommend you take the time to read this interview. It’s not just a fun and interesting read, but it offers valuable insights into the process behind creating “Babygirl.” As someone who has experienced the ups and downs of the music world myself, I can tell you that understanding the creative journey of fellow artists is both inspiring and educational. So, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn more about the artistry behind one of your favorite songs.

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2025-01-01 15:44