Nicole Kidman: Her Best Movies From The 2000s

The 2000s were a remarkable decade for Nicole Kidman, a period where she solidified her status as one of Hollywood's most versatile and respected actresses. From intense dramas to captivating musicals, Kidman showcased her incredible range, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards. Let's dive into some of her best films from that era, exploring the roles that defined her cinematic journey.

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

Moulin Rouge! is a dazzling, vibrant, and heartbreaking musical directed by Baz Luhrmann. Kidman stars as Satine, a captivating courtesan and star performer at the Moulin Rouge in Paris. She falls in love with Christian, a young, idealistic writer played by Ewan McGregor. Their love story unfolds amidst the extravagant spectacle of the Moulin Rouge, but their happiness is threatened by Satine's illness and the possessive Duke who promises to secure the future of the Moulin Rouge if Satine becomes his. This film is not just a musical; it’s an experience – a whirlwind of colors, music, and raw emotion. Kidman's performance is nothing short of breathtaking. She embodies Satine with a perfect blend of glamour, vulnerability, and strength. Her singing is surprisingly good, adding another layer to her already impressive performance. The chemistry between Kidman and McGregor is electric, making their tragic love story all the more poignant. Moulin Rouge! earned Kidman her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, cementing her place as a leading lady who could tackle any genre with grace and talent. The film's innovative style, mixing classic Hollywood musicals with modern pop music, was groundbreaking and helped revitalize the musical genre for a new generation. Beyond the critical acclaim, Moulin Rouge! became a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion, music, and filmmaking for years to come.

The Others (2001)

The Others is a chilling and atmospheric gothic horror film directed by Alejandro Amenábar. Kidman portrays Grace Stewart, a devoutly religious woman living in a dimly lit, isolated country house on the island of Jersey during World War II. Grace is anxiously awaiting the return of her husband from the war while caring for her two photosensitive children, Anne and Nicholas, who suffer from a rare disease that makes them extremely sensitive to light. As the film progresses, strange events begin to occur in the house. Grace becomes increasingly convinced that the house is haunted. The Others is a masterclass in suspense. Amenábar creates a deeply unsettling atmosphere through the use of shadows, sound, and psychological tension. Kidman's performance is central to the film's success. She portrays Grace with a growing sense of paranoia and desperation, her performance is nuanced and captivating, drawing the viewer into her character's increasingly fragile mental state. The film's twist ending is both shocking and satisfying, challenging the audience's perception of reality. The Others was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Kidman's reputation as a versatile actress who could excel in any genre. It remains a classic of modern horror cinema, praised for its intelligent storytelling and masterful direction. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good scare with a thought-provoking narrative.

The Hours (2002)

The Hours is a profoundly moving and intricately woven drama directed by Stephen Daldry. The film tells the interconnected stories of three women from different eras, each grappling with their own struggles and searching for meaning in their lives. Kidman plays Virginia Woolf, the celebrated author of Mrs. Dalloway, as she battles depression and attempts to write her novel in 1920s England. Julianne Moore portrays Laura Brown, a pregnant housewife in 1950s Los Angeles, who is deeply unhappy with her life and contemplates escaping her responsibilities. Meryl Streep plays Clarissa Vaughan, a modern-day New Yorker, who is planning a party for her friend Richard, a poet dying of AIDS. The Hours is a meditation on life, death, and the search for connection. Kidman's portrayal of Virginia Woolf is transformative. She completely embodies the author's physical and emotional fragility, capturing her intellectual brilliance and her deep sense of despair. Her performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, a well-deserved recognition of her talent and dedication. The film as a whole is a powerful and poignant exploration of the human condition. It's a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for connection and meaning. The Hours is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on your own life and relationships.

Cold Mountain (2003)

Cold Mountain is an epic Civil War drama directed by Anthony Minghella. Kidman stars as Ada Monroe, a refined Southern woman who is left to fend for herself after her father's death and the departure of Inman, a local carpenter with whom she shares a deep connection, to fight for the Confederacy. As the war rages on, Ada struggles to survive in the harsh and unforgiving landscape of Cold Mountain. Meanwhile, Inman endures the horrors of war as he desperately tries to make his way back home to Ada. Cold Mountain is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. Kidman's performance is understated yet powerful. She portrays Ada with a quiet strength and determination, capturing her character's transformation from a sheltered young woman to a resourceful survivor. The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and a palpable sense of authenticity. Cold Mountain is a classic Hollywood epic with compelling performances, a moving story, and masterful direction. It's a testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit.

Dogville (2003)

Dogville is a controversial and thought-provoking experimental drama directed by Lars von Trier. Kidman plays Grace Mulligan, a mysterious woman on the run from gangsters, who arrives in the isolated and impoverished town of Dogville. The townspeople agree to hide her in exchange for her labor, but as time goes on, they begin to exploit and abuse her. Dogville is a stark and unflinching examination of human nature, exploring themes of morality, power, and the dark side of community. The film is shot on a bare stage, with minimal sets and props, which creates a sense of claustrophobia and intensifies the emotional impact of the story. Kidman's performance is brave and vulnerable. She portrays Grace with a mixture of innocence and strength, capturing her character's descent from hope to despair. Dogville is not an easy film to watch, but it is a powerful and unforgettable experience. It challenges the audience to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. It remains one of von Trier's most controversial and debated films, but also one of his most important.

The Stepford Wives (2004)

The Stepford Wives is a satirical black comedy directed by Frank Oz, a remake of the 1975 film of the same name. Kidman stars as Joanna Eberhart, a successful television executive who moves with her husband and children to the idyllic suburban town of Stepford, Connecticut, after suffering a nervous breakdown. Joanna soon discovers that the women of Stepford are not as perfect as they seem. They are all unnaturally beautiful, docile, and obsessed with housework. As Joanna investigates, she uncovers a sinister secret about the town and its seemingly perfect wives. The Stepford Wives is a darkly humorous and satirical commentary on gender roles, societal expectations, and the pursuit of perfection. Kidman's performance is sharp and witty. She portrays Joanna with a perfect blend of cynicism and determination, capturing her character's transformation from a stressed-out career woman to a rebellious investigator. While the film received mixed reviews, Kidman's performance was generally praised. The Stepford Wives is a fun and entertaining film with a thought-provoking message. It's a reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that it's important to question the status quo.

Birth (2004)

Birth is a psychological drama directed by Jonathan Glazer. Kidman plays Anna, a young widow who is confronted with a disturbing claim: a ten-year-old boy named Sean insists that he is the reincarnation of her deceased husband. Anna is initially skeptical, but as Sean reveals intimate details about her past, she begins to question her own sanity and the nature of reality. Birth is a haunting and unsettling exploration of grief, love, and the supernatural. Kidman's performance is mesmerizing. She portrays Anna with a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, capturing her character's emotional turmoil and her struggle to come to terms with the impossible. The film is visually stunning, with a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the sense of mystery and unease. Birth is a challenging and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after you've seen it. It's a reminder that the boundaries between reality and illusion are often blurred and that the human heart is capable of extraordinary things.

Bewitched (2005)

Bewitched is a romantic comedy fantasy film directed by Nora Ephron, inspired by the 1960s television series of the same name. Kidman stars as Isabel Bigelow, a real witch who is trying to live a normal life. She is cast as Samantha Stephens in a remake of the classic TV show Bewitched, opposite Jack Wyatt, a narcissistic actor who is unaware that Isabel is actually a witch. As Isabel and Jack work together, they begin to fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by Isabel's powers and Jack's ego. Bewitched is a lighthearted and charming romantic comedy with a touch of magic. Kidman's performance is delightful. She portrays Isabel with a perfect blend of sweetness and mischief, capturing her character's desire for normalcy and her irresistible magical abilities. While the film received mixed reviews, Kidman's performance was widely praised. Bewitched is a fun and entertaining film for anyone who enjoys a good romantic comedy with a touch of fantasy.

These are just a few of the many memorable films Nicole Kidman starred in during the 2000s. Her talent, versatility, and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most respected and admired actresses in Hollywood. She continues to challenge herself with diverse roles, captivating audiences with her performances and solidifying her legacy as a true cinematic icon. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these incredible movies showcasing Nicole Kidman at her finest!