Nicole Kidman Reflects on Film Industry Challenges: “Everything’s Hard to Greenlight Now” — Except “Maybe Not Deadpool”
Nicole Kidman reflects on the challenges of greenlighting films in today's industry, dream directors, and upcoming projects like Scarpetta and Babygirl.
In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Nicole Kidman opened up about the increasing challenges of getting films and shows greenlit in today’s entertainment landscape. Reflecting on her extensive career, which includes her upcoming thriller Babygirl, Kidman acknowledged the struggles faced by filmmakers in securing financing for projects—particularly those outside of blockbuster franchises.
“Everything’s hard now,” Kidman shared. “Actually everything. I mean, maybe not Deadpool, but there’s nothing that’s just an automatic greenlight, like, ‘Yep, this is it, let’s go.'” The Academy Award-winning actress noted that it’s not just the big Hollywood studios that are feeling the pressure—crews, writers, and everyone in the industry are also dealing with the shrinking opportunities. “Things are shrinking in terms of shows being done and films being made. I definitely feel it. I’m sure most people in the industry feel it.”
Despite the obstacles, Kidman explained that the current environment requires collaboration with the right people and careful selection of projects to ensure energy and passion for moving forward. “It’s always been hard. I started at 14, so I’ve seen a lot now,” she said, acknowledging that the challenges of the business aren’t new but have intensified over time.
In the same interview, Kidman revealed her list of dream directors she hopes to work with, including The Hurt Locker director Kathryn Bigelow and Licorice Pizza filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson. She also addressed her long-held desire to collaborate with Martin Scorsese, but with a subtle caveat. “I’ve always said I want to work with Scorsese, if he does a film with women,” she quipped.
Kidman is currently gearing up for a busy year. She’s set to star and executive produce Scarpetta, a two-season mystery thriller series for Prime Video based on Patricia Cornwell’s best-selling book series. Additionally, Kidman will be seen in Babygirl, an erotic thriller by director Halina Reijn, set for release on Christmas Day.
The multi-talented actress continues to prove that even in an unpredictable industry, her commitment to bold roles and compelling stories remains as strong as ever.