Nicole Kidman has established herself as one of the defining actresses of her generation, captivating audiences through a diverse array of films ranging from epic dramas to suspenseful thrillers. Her extensive career showcases remarkable versatility, highlighted by memorable roles such as the enigmatic witch in Practical Magic and the trailblazing Lucille Ball in Being the Ricardos. This article explores the Nicole Kidman best movies as ranked by fans on Letterboxd, reflecting the audience’s perspective on her most impactful roles.
The Top Ten Nicole Kidman Films According to Audience Ratings
Starting with the tenth place and moving to the highest-rated film, these selections demonstrate a range of genres and performances that have resonated with viewers worldwide.
10. A Haunting Psychological Thriller: Birth (2004)
In 2004, Kidman took on the role of Anna in Jonathan Glazer’s psychological thriller Birth, portraying a woman grappling with grief after the death of her husband Sean, who she believes has been reincarnated in the body of a ten-year-old boy played by Cameron Bright. This film delves deeply into the psychological turmoil experienced by someone caught between moving forward and being pulled back into a haunting past. Despite being widely criticized by film critics and scoring poorly on Rotten Tomatoes, Birth has earned a passionate following on Letterboxd, buoyed by loyal five-star ratings from dedicated fans. Notably, though, Anne Heche’s performance has often been cited as more compelling than Kidman’s by critics.
9. Exploring Dark Suburbia in The Killing of the Sacred Deer (2017)
Continuing in the vein of unsettling psychological dramas, The Killing of the Sacred Deer directed by Yorgos Lanthimos features Kidman as Anna, the wife of a successful cardiovascular surgeon, Steven Murphy (Collin Farrell). The film’s chilling narrative unfolds as a mysterious teenager, Martin (Barry Keoghan), begins to disrupt the seemingly perfect family dynamic. This movie is distinctive for its blend of horror and surrealism, paying homage to the suspenseful styles of the ’80s and ’90s. It culminates in a shocking finale that leaves a lasting impression. While the performances were widely praised, Barry Keoghan’s role outshone others, including Kidman’s.
8. Venturing into Viking Lore: The Northman (2022)
Kidman’s affinity for grand-scale productions is evident in her role as Queen Gudrún in Robert Eggers’ epic period drama The Northman. Set in the Viking Age, the film follows Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), an exiled prince on a quest to avenge his father’s murder at the hands of his uncle Fjölnir (Claes Bang). Despite initial reservations, Kidman embraced the challenge of this intense role, which explored complex family dynamics and mythological themes. Although it struggled at the box office, the film gained considerable popularity on Video On Demand platforms, offering a rich cinematic experience rooted in Viking culture rarely depicted with such authenticity.
7. Family-Friendly Antagonist Turns: Paddington (2014)
Kidman demonstrated her range by embracing the role of Millicent Clyde, the villainous taxidermist in the beloved family film Paddington. Based on Michael Bond’s classic character, the story follows a bear migrating from Peru to London and being cared for by the Brown family. Kidman’s portrayal of Millicent skillfully balances menace with comedic flair, making her a memorable antagonist for children and adults alike. The film’s charm and wit led to critical acclaim and spawned two successful sequels, solidifying its place in contemporary family cinema. Kidman’s performance in this film revealed her strong comic timing and ability to captivate audiences across different genres.
6. Mastering Atmosphere in the Supernatural Thriller The Others (2001)
In The Others, Nicole Kidman stars as Grace, a devoted mother shielding her children from sunlight due to a rare photosensitivity condition, while confronting a haunting that blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural. Directed by Alejandro Amenábar, this gothic thriller emphasizes psychological tension over gore, allowing Kidman to explore a nuanced portrayal of maternal protectiveness intensified by fear. Her steady performance grounds the film’s eerie atmosphere, making it not just a horror story but a study in emotional resilience and suspense. This role marked an important shift in Kidman’s career, showcasing her capacity for subtlety within genre films.
5. A Musical Milestone: Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Baz Luhrmann’s vibrant jukebox musical, Moulin Rouge!, elevated Kidman to new heights as she embodied Satine, the enchanting courtesan who captures the heart of Christian, a struggling English poet portrayed by Ewan McGregor. The film’s visually stunning presentation combined with a reimagined soundtrack resonated deeply with audiences, reinvigorating the musical film genre in the 21st century. For her role, Kidman received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, solidifying her position as a leading performer capable of combining dramatic depth with charismatic onscreen presence. The film’s emotional and visual impact continues to influence contemporary musicals.
4. A Touching Biographical Journey: Lion (2016)
Lion, directed by Garth Davis and inspired by Saroo Brierley’s memoir A Long Way Home, tells a powerful story of identity and belonging. Kidman and David Wenham play Saroo’s adoptive parents, Sue and John Brierley, offering a steadfast emotional anchor in the narrative. The film charts Saroo’s search for his biological family in India after 25 years, weaving together heartfelt performances and moving storytelling. Kidman’s portrayal is both restrained and deeply affecting, earning critical acclaim alongside six Oscar nominations for the film. Its success at the box office also marked it as one of Australia’s highest-grossing films to date, demonstrating Kidman’s continued global appeal.
3. Transforming into Virginia Woolf: The Hours
The Hours presents a complex narrative of three women connected through the life and work of Virginia Woolf. Nicole Kidman’s transformative role as Woolf required a physical and emotional depth rarely demanded, including the use of prosthetics to resemble the novelist more closely. The film intertwines stories across different eras, exploring themes of depression, creativity, and connection. Alongside Meryl Streep and Julianne Moore, Kidman delivered a performance that won her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Directed by Stephen Daldry and adapted by David Hare from Michael Cunningham’s novel, The Hours remains a benchmark of ensemble excellence and intense character study.
2. Erotic and Psychological Depth in Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut, features Kidman opposite then-husband Tom Cruise in a haunting exploration of desire and jealousy. Kidman plays Alice Hartford, whose confession of erotic fantasies triggers a nightmarish journey for her husband through the seedy underbelly of New York’s secret sexual society. Adapted from Arthur Schnitzler’s novella Dream Story, the film examines the complexities of human sexuality and trust. Notably, it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous film shoot. Kidman once shared in a Vogue interview that Kubrick’s enigmatic response regarding the film’s meaning was,
“Don’t ever ask me that!”
– Nicole Kidman, actress. The movie remains an intense psychological study marked by Kubrick’s unmistakable directorial style.
1. A Bold and Experimental Showcase: Dogville (2003)
Ranked highest by Letterboxd users, Lars von Trier’s Dogville features Kidman as Grace Mulligan, a woman fleeing mobsters who discovers refuge in a small Colorado town, only to face increasing exploitation. The film’s minimalist, stage-like set challenges traditional cinematic storytelling, demanding powerful performances to carry its dramatic weight. Kidman embodies a complex character who endures dehumanization, symbolized by being forced to wear a dog collar, yet delivers a performance acclaimed for its emotional intensity and nuance. Despite initial criticism for its perceived pretentiousness, Dogville has earned respect over time from both filmmakers and audiences. The cast includes notable actors such as Lauren Bacall, Paul Bettany, James Caan, and Patricia Clarkson, completing an ensemble that enriches von Trier’s provocative vision.
Fan Perspectives and Nicole Kidman’s Unmatched Range
These rankings reveal Nicole Kidman’s extraordinary ability to inhabit diverse roles with passion and conviction. From gothic horror to intimate dramas and large-scale epics, her performances continually engage audiences, inspiring deep emotional and intellectual responses. Films like Dogville and The Hours demonstrate her willingness to take risks, while family films like Paddington show a lighter, versatile side. This variety ensures her continued relevance as an artist capable of both intense and subtle portrayals.
The presence of films such as Birth and The Killing of the Sacred Deer also illustrates the divide between critical consensus and fan appreciation, signifying that Kidman’s work provokes strong reactions and loyalty within cinephile communities. Her collaboration with visionary directors including Lars von Trier, Baz Luhrmann, and Robert Eggers further cements her status among contemporary cinematic titans.
As Nicole Kidman continues to select challenging and compelling projects, her fan base remains eager to witness her next steps. This list not only honors her past achievements but also sets the stage for future performances to be judged by equally passionate audiences. The Nicole Kidman best movies as ranked by fans highlight a career defined by bold choices, artistic integrity, and a lasting impact on modern cinema.
