Rob Lowe and Kristin Davis Critique Modern Cinema’s Approach to On-Screen Intimacy

The actors discuss the evolving portrayal of sex scenes in films, highlighting Nicole Kidman’s role in “Babygirl.”

In a recent episode of his “Literally!” podcast, Rob Lowe engaged in a candid conversation with “Sex and the City” star Kristin Davis about the current state of sex scenes in cinema. The discussion stemmed from their observation that “sexy movies” have become a rarity in today’s film landscape.

Lowe referenced Nicole Kidman’s performance in the erotic thriller “Babygirl” as a notable exception. Directed by Halina Reijn, “Babygirl” features Kidman as a high-powered CEO who embarks on a risky affair with her younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson. The film has been praised for its bold exploration of power and desire. Kidman’s portrayal earned her the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the 81st Venice International Film Festival.

Despite such performances, Lowe expressed concern over the current perception of actors who participate in on-screen intimacy, noting that they are often labeled as “brave.” He reminisced about earlier times in the industry when such scenes were more commonplace, even joking about a “page 73 rule” where a sex scene was predictably placed in scripts.

Davis concurred, observing that the industry’s attitude toward on-screen intimacy has shifted significantly since their early careers. She reflected on the heightened caution surrounding nudity during the original run of “Sex and the City,” contrasting it with today’s more liberal red carpet fashions.

Kidman herself has addressed the challenges and significance of portraying complex female sexuality on screen. She described the “Babygirl” script as “raw and dangerous,” appreciating that it offered a narrative centered on a mature woman exploring her desires. Kidman emphasized the importance of representing women as multifaceted beings, especially in a society that often sidelines them after a certain age.

As the film industry continues to evolve, discussions like these highlight the ongoing dialogue about the portrayal of intimacy and the roles of women in cinema.