The protagonists of Babygirl and Black Doves are stuck in their seemingly perfect lives but find fulfillment outside them. These characters, inspired by Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, struggle with the act of performance and the ease of getting trapped playing a part.
In the film Babygirl, Romy, played by Nicole Kidman, is a CEO who appears to have it all together. However, beneath her polished exterior lies a complex woman who is dying to break free from her “perfect” life. Meanwhile, in the Netflix series Black Doves, Helen, played by Keira Knightley, is a spy hiding under deep cover.
Both Babygirl and Black Doves explore themes of desire, deception, and power during the holiday season. Romy’s character is particularly intriguing, as she navigates her various identities with ease but struggles to find authenticity. A chance encounter with Samuel, played by Harris Dickinson, sets her on a path of self-discovery, forcing her to confront the performance she has been living.
These characters are not typical Christmas movie heroes – they are complex and multifaceted individuals who embody the raw emotions and desires that often get overlooked during the holiday season. By examining their struggles with identity and authenticity, Babygirl offers a thought-provoking portrayal of what it means to be human in a world where perfection is often presented as the ultimate goal.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2024/12/babygirl-black-doves-review-perfect-wives/681161