Nicole Kidman, who has worked with 27 women directors in 8 years, receives Cannes’ Woman in Motion Award for her advocacy against ageism.
Nicole Kidman has long been a trailblazer in Hollywood, not just for her acting prowess but for her unwavering commitment to uplifting women in the film industry. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed, as she is set to receive the prestigious Woman in Motion Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her advocacy and continued efforts in championing female directors.
This honor recognizes Kidman’s remarkable impact on promoting gender equality in an industry historically dominated by men. But her influence extends beyond this accolade.
At Cannes, she also spoke out against ageism, urging the industry to give young female filmmakers the opportunities they deserve. Kidman’s work is not just about personal achievement—it’s about challenging systemic biases and creating a more inclusive future for cinema.
In 2017, Kidman made a public vow to work with a woman director every 18 months, a bold promise at a time when the disparity in opportunities for women in Hollywood was stark. Since then, she has far exceeded that goal, collaborating with an impressive 27 female directors in just eight years.
This achievement is a testament to her dedication and her refusal to accept the status quo. “I had to start to say this is how I am doing it,” Kidman remarked, emphasizing her proactive approach to creating change.
Among the talented women she has worked with are Karyn Kusama, known for her work on Destroyer, and Susanne Bier, who directed Kidman in the critically acclaimed series The Undoing. Her filmography since 2017 reflects a deliberate mix of industry veterans and newcomers, including Halina Reijn’s Babygirl and Mimi Cave’s Holland.
Kidman’s commitment to working with women directors is not just about fulfilling a personal goal; it’s about challenging the systemic biases that have long plagued the film industry. Women directors often face a double standard, where they are under immense pressure to deliver “perfect” movies, while their male counterparts are more likely to be given second chances after a flop.
Kidman has spoken out about this unfair standard, noting that women are frequently “knocked down” if they don’t deliver flawlessly, whereas men are allowed to rebound. By consistently choosing to work with women, Kidman is helping to level the playing field and create more opportunities for female filmmakers.
Her efforts are a direct response to the industry’s entrenched inequities, and she has urged “financial mentors” to take risks on unknown female filmmakers, emphasizing the need for systemic change.
In addition to her work with women directors, Kidman has been a vocal advocate against ageism in Hollywood. At the Cannes Film Festival, she spoke passionately about the importance of resisting ageism and giving young female filmmakers a chance to shine.
This advocacy is particularly significant in an industry where age often limits opportunities, especially for women. Kidman’s stance on ageism aligns with her broader mission to dismantle barriers and create a more inclusive environment for all creators, regardless of gender or age.
Her voice carries weight, not just because of her status as an Oscar-winning actor, but because she has consistently used her platform to push for meaningful change.
As Kidman continues to break down barriers and champion women in film, she is paving the way for a new generation of filmmakers who will no longer be held back by the constraints of gender. Her efforts are not just changing the industry; they are inspiring a movement that will shape the future of cinema for years to come.
By exceeding her own vow and working with 27 women directors in eight years, Kidman has set a powerful example of how individual action can drive collective progress. Her work is a reminder that change in Hollywood doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intention, persistence, and a willingness to challenge the establishment.
And as she accepts the Woman in Motion Award, it’s clear that Kidman’s influence will continue to ripple through the industry, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
source Variety
