Babygirl explores the complex emotions and personal growth of Romy, a successful CEO at a tech company. Despite her seemingly ideal life, Romy struggles with deep-seated frustrations in both her professional and personal life. Her desire for excitement and risk leads her into an intense affair with Samuel, a confident and casually dominant intern. This relationship serves as a catalyst for Romy’s self-discovery, challenging her to confront long-repressed desires and reshape her understanding of herself.
Romy’s attraction to Samuel is not just about physical chemistry but also the thrill of risk. She acknowledges to her husband, Jacob, that part of the affair’s appeal lies in the stakes—her career, family, and reputation are all on the line.
Samuel’s dominant yet composed demeanor contrasts sharply with Romy’s controlled and structured life, giving her an opportunity to relinquish control. The relationship provides a much-needed escape from the monotony of her daily existence, offering her a sense of liberation she had long denied herself.
Nicole Kidman as Romy and Harris Dickinson as Actor (Photo: Babygirl/Man Up Films)Power Desire and Consequences in Romy’s Struggle with Secrecy and Self Acceptance
Throughout the film, Romy reflects on her attraction to power dynamics in relationships, admitting that she has had these fantasies for years. However, societal norms and personal inhibitions led her to suppress these feelings. This repression results in a disconnect between her public persona and private desires.
The affair with Samuel, based on mutual consent, forces her to confront these internal struggles. Samuel, despite his seemingly detached nature, underscores the importance of consent and open communication, pushing Romy toward self-acceptance.
As Romy and Samuel become entangled in their affair, secrecy becomes increasingly difficult to maintain. Although their relationship remains concealed for some time, key individuals eventually uncover the truth. The most significant fallout occurs when Jacob learns about the affair, leading to a painful confrontation.
Meanwhile, Romy’s assistant, Esme, expresses disappointment, accusing Romy of abusing her position of power in a manner reminiscent of unethical male executives. These revelations force Romy to reevaluate the ethical and emotional ramifications of her actions.
While Samuel initially engages in the relationship with Romy out of curiosity and dominance, his feelings evolve over time. His vulnerability becomes apparent when he takes Romy to an underground club, where he is uncharacteristically affectionate.
Despite their deepening connection, Samuel ultimately chooses to end the affair, recognizing the disruption it has caused in Romy’s life. His decision to walk away, coupled with an apology, adds a bittersweet element to their story. It highlights the complexity of their relationship—one that was transformative yet unsustainable.
Nicole Kidman as Romy and Harris Dickinson as Actor (Photo: Babygirl/Man Up Films)A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Love, Honesty, and Personal Growth
An intriguing subplot in Babygirl draws parallels between Romy and her teenage daughter, Isabel. Initially rebellious and distant, Isabel shares an unexpected moment of understanding with her mother when Romy discovers her cheating on her girlfriend. Isabel’s casual attitude toward infidelity mirrors Romy’s initial justification for her affair.
However, Isabel ultimately chooses to remain with her girlfriend, a decision that subtly influences Romy’s own path. Their evolving mother-daughter relationship underscores the film’s overarching theme of self-awareness and personal growth.
The core message of Babygirl is Romy’s acceptance of her desires without compromising her existing life. Unlike the cold and detached person she was at the film’s beginning, Romy ends the story by openly communicating with Jacob. Instead of continuing to repress her needs or escaping into secrecy, she chooses honesty. This newfound openness allows her to explore a fulfilling relationship with Jacob, proving that self-acceptance does not have to come at the cost of stability and love.
Ultimately, Babygirl is more than just an erotic thriller; it is a story of emotional evolution and self-discovery. While the affair serves as a dramatic centerpiece, the true focus lies in Romy’s transformation. By embracing her desires and being truthful about them, she finds a way to reconcile her inner conflicts with her outward life. The film delivers a powerful message about self-acceptance, emphasizing that true satisfaction comes not from secrecy and escapism but from honesty and mutual understanding.
