Nicole Kidman Reveals Her Unique Filming Rules on Set: “She’s a Little Crazy”

Nicole Kidman, the acclaimed star of Babygirl, has shared an intriguing insight about her on-set filming practices, particularly a unique rule she adheres to. A prominent figure in Hollywood, Kidman boasts a remarkable track record, including five Oscar nominations and a win, often credited for elevating the projects she stars in. As this awards season unfolds, her latest film, Babygirl, has already garnered a Best Actress nomination at the Golden Globes, with its theatrical release set for December 25, 2024.

Despite Kidman’s impressive accolades, one element of her filming approach may raise eyebrows: her steadfast refusal to watch video playback while on set. During a Variety Actors-on-Actors interview with Zendaya, Kidman elaborated on this unconventional method, revealing that some directors, particularly Baz Luhrmann, challenge her preference.

I don’t like to break where I am. It’s almost a trance. If the director’s speaking off camera, I can hear it, but I wouldn’t come out of character — people are like, “She’s a little crazy.” I don’t like the monitor. But someone like Baz Luhrmann loves you to look. If you make me, I will, but my preference is not to.

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Kidman’s collaboration with Luhrmann was pivotal in her career, particularly with the iconic musical Moulin Rouge!, which earned her first Oscar nomination and grossed an impressive $179 million. Although their follow-up film, the 2008 epic Australia, did not achieve similar acclaim—receiving mixed reviews and later being adapted into a mini-series titled Faraway Downs—Kidman’s confidence in her director remains unwavering.

Having expressed initial doubts about portraying the character of Satine in Moulin Rouge!, Kidman ultimately succeeded with Luhrmann’s guidance, illustrating the robust trust established between them. This rapport is likely why Luhrmann is the one director capable of persuading her to deviate from her established practices.

Kidman appears comfortable with her perceived eccentricity as long as it aids in maintaining her focus and delivering compelling performances.

Evaluation of Kidman’s No-Monitor Technique

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Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor in Moulin Rouge! — Image via 20th Century Fox

Method acting often incorporates unconventional behaviors in pursuit of artistic excellence. Some actors engage in quirky practices amusingly, such as Peter Weller insisting on being called “Murphy”on the set of RoboCop. Others, like Jared Leto, exhibit unsettling habits, including sending a dead pig and live rat to co-stars during his preparation for Suicide Squad. Kidman’s method may not be as extreme, but it underlines her commitment to remaining deeply immersed in her roles.

While Kidman’s experience is quite unique, she is not alone in her aversion to viewing her own performances. A host of Hollywood talents, including Johnny Depp and Emma Stone, have openly discussed their discomfort with watching their films. This reluctance speaks to a broader phenomenon among actors, likely fueled by the emotional stakes involved in their work.

Ultimately, Kidman’s dedication to her craft and her unconventional practices highlight her artistic integrity. While Luhrmann’s influence allows her a rare exception to her no-monitor rule, her sensibility remains firmly rooted in delivering outstanding performances, reinforcing her position as one of the industry’s most respected and talented figures.

Source: Variety

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