Nicole Kidman has always been known for taking on challenging and boundary-pushing roles throughout her acting career. However, filming the 1999 erotic drama Eyes Wide Shut alongside her then-husband Tom Cruise presented her with unique challenges. In particular, the film’s explicit scenes and full-frontal nudity demanded an extra level of care and preparation. To ensure her comfort during production, Kidman included a special clause in her contract. This clause provided her with control and protection over how her body was portrayed.
Nicole Kidman’s Initial Hesitation and the Special Contract Clause
Stanley Kubrick approached Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise to star in Eyes Wide Shut. He had a vision for a film that would explore deep emotional themes. It would also delve into sexual themes. Kidman was excited about working with the legendary director. However, she admitted she had serious reservations when Kubrick asked for full-frontal nudity. She worried about being exposed in a way that could leave her feeling vulnerable.
In a resurfaced interview with The New York Times, Kidman discussed her concerns and how they were addressed. She recalled Kubrick’s direct request for nudity, which made her uncomfortable. To ease her fears, she and Kubrick reached a contractual agreement. The clause ensured that Kubrick would show her any scenes with nudity before they were finalized. This gave her full control over what ended up in the film. This arrangement, she said, made her feel “completely safe.”
The contract was essential for Kidman, allowing her to focus on her character without feeling exploited. “I didn’t say no to any of it,” she explained. “I just wanted to ensure it wasn’t me standing there nude. I didn’t want everyone laughing at me.” This assurance gave her the confidence. She delivered her best performance in a film that would challenge her both as an actress and a wife.
How Kubrick Explored Their Real-Life Marriage
Eyes Wide Shut isn’t just a film about sexual exploration. It’s a deep dive into a marriage unraveling under the pressure of hidden desires and secrets. Kidman and Cruise were one of Hollywood’s most prominent couples at the time. They had the task of bringing these heavy themes to life on-screen. Interestingly, Kidman has since noted that Kubrick may have drawn inspiration from their real-life relationship.
In a 2020 interview, Kidman mentioned that Kubrick was highly curious about her and Cruise’s marriage. He often asked personal questions. Kidman recalled his frequent curiosity. She hinted that some of those personal inquiries found their way into the film’s narrative. She even speculated that Kubrick was “mining” their relationship for the story. This approach could have created tension. However, Kidman noted the director understood the delicate nature of exploring such themes. He handled the situation carefully.
Kubrick’s interest in the dynamics of relationships was profound. He extended this interest to the concept of love triangles. These dynamics play a central role in Eyes Wide Shut. According to Kidman, Kubrick warned them that portraying such complexities could be emotionally challenging, but he knew how to navigate the material in a way that respected their real-life bond.
The Film’s Impact and Nicole Kidman’s Thoughts on Vulnerability
Eyes Wide Shut premiered in 1999 to polarizing reviews. Some praised its bold exploration of sexuality. Others criticized its slow pace and ambiguous storytelling. Despite the mixed reception, the film has gained recognition as a cult classic. It is also considered one of Kubrick’s most thought-provoking works.
For Kidman, the film was a significant career milestone, allowing her to explore new depths as an actress. In her interviews, she has emphasized that the special clause in her contract helped her feel protected throughout the filming process. “I was protected,” she said, reflecting on how the agreement allowed her to explore the complex emotions her character faced, particularly around jealousy and desire.
Though she did not refuse any of the explicit scenes, having the final say over what appeared in the movie made all the difference. The clause allowed her to delve into the role without the fear of exploitation, a concern that many actors face when dealing with intimate or vulnerable material.
Life After Eyes Wide Shut for Nicole Kidman and Cruise
Despite the intense chemistry they displayed on screen, Kidman and Cruise’s marriage did not survive long after the film’s release. The couple, who had adopted two children together, divorced in 2001, with Cruise citing irreconcilable differences. Their separation shocked the public, as they had been one of Hollywood’s most beloved power couples.
After their divorce, both Nicole Kidman and Cruise went on to lead successful lives. Cruise continues to dominate the box office with blockbuster films. Kidman has since remarried country music star Keith Urban. She shares two daughters with him.
Conclusion
Nicole Kidman’s experience filming Eyes Wide Shut alongside Tom Cruise was undoubtedly challenging. However, the special contract clause she secured gave her the confidence and protection she needed. This support enabled her to deliver a memorable performance. The agreement allowed her to feel safe. It empowered her, ensuring that she could engage with the film’s complex themes. She did this without compromising her comfort. Kidman’s story serves as a reminder. Actors can—and should—assert control over their boundaries. This is important even when working with the most demanding of directors.
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