Nicole Kidman won the Best Actress award at the prestigious 2024 Venice Film Festival for her performance in the film Babygirl. The victory was marked by an emotional moment when, instead of Kidman, the film’s director, Halina Reijn, took the stage to receive the statuette. The audience, who applauded the actress’s victory, were surprised by Reijn’s explanation, which brought a message from Kidman explaining her absence.
The reason for Nicole Kidman’s absence
At the ceremony, Halina Reijn asked for the applause to cease before reading a letter left by Nicole Kidman. The actress explained that she was unable to attend to receive the award due to the death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidmanwhich took place that day. In her message, Kidman described the shock and pain of the loss, but also dedicated the award to her mother, mentioning her importance in her life and career. It was a very emotional moment at the Venice Film Festival.
Nicole Kidman’s emotional letter
In the letter read by Halina Reijn, Kidman expressed her deep gratitude to her mother, saying Janelle was her greatest influence and strength. “This award is for her“, wrote the actress, referring to her mother as the person who shaped and guided her throughout her life. She took the opportunity to thank the festival and the film’s team Babygirlhighlighting how difficult it was to experience the collision between life and art at that painful moment.
The award-winning performance in Babygirl
Babygirlthe film that earned Nicole Kidman the Best Actress award, is directed by Halina Reijn and addresses intense themes of motherhood, loss and redemption. Kidman’s performance was widely praised for its sensitivity and depth, once again cementing her status as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. Critics praised her ability to explore complex emotions with a delicacy that captivated both audiences and jurors at the Venice Film Festival.
Pedro Almodóvar wins the Golden Lion
In addition to Nicole Kidman’s win, the 2024 Venice Film Festival also awarded filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar with the coveted Golden Lion. His film The Room Next Doorstarring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, was voted the festival’s best film. Almodóvar’s work, known for its originality and emotional depth, once again delighted critics and reaffirmed the director’s importance in the global film scene.
Brazil wins Best Screenplay award
Brazilian cinema was also highlighted at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. The film I’m Still Herea national production, won the award for Best Screenplay, demonstrating the strength of Brazilian cinema in international competitions. The award was an important recognition for the film’s team and for the Brazilian film industry, which has been gaining increasing visibility at international festivals.
The impact of Babygirl at the Festival
Babygirl was one of the most talked-about films at the Venice Film Festival, both for its engaging plot and for Halina Reijn’s direction. The film addresses the complexity of family relationships and the emotional impact of great loss, themes that resonated strongly with critics and audiences. Nicole Kidman’s performance was the highlight of the film, and her absence from the awards ceremony, due to personal loss, added an even greater emotional layer to the film’s impact at the festival.
The reception of The Room Next Door
With the victory of The Room Next DoorPedro Almodóvar reaffirmed his prominent place in world cinema. The film, which features brilliant performances by Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, explores psychological drama in a plot full of tension and twists. The work was acclaimed by critics and established the Spanish filmmaker as one of the biggest names of today, earning him the Golden Lion.
The emotional connection between art and life
The 2024 Venice Film Festival was marked by an intense combination of art and personal life, as demonstrated in Nicole Kidman’s letter. The loss of her mother and her absence from the awards ceremony brought a new perspective on the role of art as a reflection of human emotions. Moments like these reinforce the power of cinema to touch people’s lives, both onstage and off.
A festival full of great talents
The 2024 Venice Film Festival was a true spectacle of talent and emotion. From Nicole Kidman’s thrilling win to the recognition of Brazilian cinema and the consecration of Pedro Almodóvar, the event reaffirmed its role as one of the main stages for world cinema. With so many memorable moments, this year’s festival will be remembered for the intensity of the performances and the moving stories it brought to the audience.
Summary for those in a hurry:
- Nicole Kidman won the Best Actress award at the 2024 Venice Film Festival for her performance in Babygirl.
- The actress was unable to attend the ceremony due to the death of her mother, dedicating the award to her.
- The movie The Room Next Doorby Pedro Almodóvar, won the Golden Lion for best film.
- Brazilian cinema was awarded Best Screenplay for the film I’m Still Here.
- Babygirl was praised by critics, especially for Kidman’s performance.
- The 2024 Venice Film Festival celebrated great names in world cinema, highlighting exciting and impactful performances.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
