As Nicole Kidman celebrates 25 years since the release of Eyes Wide Shut, she takes a look back at the experience of working on the film with her co-star and then-husband Tom Cruise. The Academy Award-winning actress recalls the extensive rehearsal period for one particular scene in the movie, where she and Cruise had an intimate talk over a joint in their bedroom. Kidman describes how she and Cruise spent weeks rehearsing this scene with writer/director Stanley Kubrick, engaging in a lot of discussion and improvisation to bring authenticity to their performances. This process of intense preparation helped them build a sense of comfort and familiarity with each other before filming even began.
During her marriage to Cruise from 1990 to 2001, Kidman worked on Eyes Wide Shut with Kubrick from 1996 to 1998. Reflecting on this period, Kidman suggests that Kubrick may have drawn inspiration from their real-life relationship while crafting the dynamics of the on-screen couple. She mentions that the director was interested in exploring certain ideas and themes, and would often ask probing questions to delve deeper into the characters and their interactions. Kidman acknowledges that Kubrick was particularly attentive to the complexities of portraying a love triangle on screen, ensuring that each character felt respected and understood in the storytelling process.
Kidman also sheds light on the different dynamics that existed on set between herself, Cruise, and Kubrick. She notes that Kubrick had a close working relationship with Cruise, focusing more on developing the nuances of his character. However, Kidman emphasizes that she never felt marginalized or overshadowed during the filming process. As a woman in the equation, Kidman believes that her perspective brought a unique dimension to the storytelling, which Kubrick appreciated. The actress highlights Kubrick’s fondness for female characters and his ability to navigate the intricacies of on-set relationships with sensitivity and respect.
In a previous interview, Kidman expressed her gratitude for the experience of working on Eyes Wide Shut with Kubrick and Cruise. She describes adopting a “slightly zen approach to things” during the lengthy shoot, as she was juggling her marriage, motherhood, and professional commitments. Kidman’s presence on set was marked by a sense of tranquility and commitment to the process, allowing her to fully immerse herself in the world Kubrick had created. This mindful approach to her work enabled Kidman to fully appreciate the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the opportunity to explore complex emotions and relationships on screen.
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