Ranking the Outstanding Performances of Nicole Kidman Nominated for Oscars

Nicole Kidman falls into the category of both a "great movie star" and a "great actor," showcasing her versatility and range in various genres. She fearlessly takes on challenging roles in daring and thought-provoking movies, solidifying her position as one of the top performers in modern cinema.

Although her comedies, horror films, and action roles may not have garnered attention from the Academy Awards, they have undoubtedly enriched her filmography. However, Kidman's breathtaking performances have seldom been overlooked during award season. With five Oscar nominations and a win for her leading role in 2002's The Hours, her Oscar-nominated roles stand as some of her finest work. While there are numerous noteworthy performances that the Academy failed to acknowledge, such as To Die For, Birth, and Destroyer, the roles that did receive recognition only further validate her status as one of the most gifted talents of her generation.

5. 'Being The Ricardos' (2021)

The film Being The Ricardos is rather average, but it does showcase a remarkable performance by Nicole Kidman. Aaron Sorkin's 2021 political drama delves into a tumultuous day in the lives of Lucille Ball (portrayed by Kidman) and Desi Arnaz (played by Javier Bardem), the beloved stars of I Love Lucy. Alongside facing criticism for her connections with the Communist Party, Ball suspects her husband, Desi, of infidelity. Despite her nightly audience of thousands, Ball feels incredibly vulnerable.

Regrettably, Sorkin's ability to create politically significant content isn't as strong as it was during The West Wing era. Being the Ricardos appears to indulge in Sorkin's less impressive tendencies, with the writer/director going overboard with his unique quirks. Kidman does a commendable job capturing Ball's mannerisms. However, it's challenging to evaluate her portrayal independently when the rest of the film is so disappointing. Her performance feels like a remarkable impersonation; with a superior script, it had the potential to be something more. Being the Ricardos falls short of being the finest biopic of the 21st century, despite Kidman's utmost efforts to salvage a predictable screenplay.

4. 'Lion' (2016)

Transmission films

Lion is a compelling true story about Saroo Brierley, an Indian boy who gets separated from his family as a child. After many years, Saroo reconnects with his family using the Internet, resulting in a highly emotional reunion. While Lion has some flaws in its storytelling, the fascinating true story behind it is enough to overlook them. Following a typical biopic structure, the first half of the film focuses on the young Saroo's initial separation, while the second half delves into the life of an older Saroo living in Australia with his girlfriend (played by Rooney Mara). Nicole Kidman delivers a standout performance as Saroo's adoptive mother, helping to bridge the two segments and provide unity to the narrative. Although the film loses some momentum when it shifts to the older Saroo, Dev Patel's committed and Oscar-nominated performance keeps audiences engaged. Kidman's portrayal in Lion showcases a softer and more tender side of her acting, proving to be one of her most nuanced and powerful performances to date.

3. 'The Hours' (2002)

Kidman won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in The Hours on her second attempt. The film revolves around three women whose lives are impacted by Virginia Woolf's cherished 1925 novel, Mrs Dalloway. In one segment, Kidman portrays the author herself, just before the novel's publication. This particular storyline may not be the most captivating, but Kidman effectively portrays how Woolf's relationship with her husband, Leonard, influenced her work and mental state.

Although not necessarily her finest work, The Hours demonstrates Kidman's ability to undergo physical transformations to embody characters in historical contexts. Disguised behind a now-famous prosthetic nose, Kidman fully encapsulates Woolf's fragile state, leading to a powerful confrontation with her husband - a scene that likely solidified her Oscar win. The Hours serves as a compelling study of character, intensified by an exceptional ensemble cast, Stephen Daldry's graceful direction, and Philip Glass' remarkable musical score.

2. 'Rabbit Hole' (2010)

Image via Lionsgate Films 

Rabbit Hole is an exceptional film that is unlikely to be watched multiple times. It stands out as one of the finest dramas revolving around family tragedy, avoiding any negative portrayal of the grieving process or passing judgment on people's reactions to such a tragedy. The story revolves around Becca (portrayed by Kidman) and Howie (played by Aaron Eckhart), a married couple coping with the loss of their young son in a car accident. While Becca understands that the car's teenage driver, Jason (portrayed by Miles Teller), was not at fault for their son's demise, Howie is less inclined to forgive and forget.

Within Rabbit Hole, there is a remarkable depiction of a relationship devastated by circumstances. It becomes evident that Becca and Howie had pre-existing issues in their marriage before the tragic incident. Kidman's performance is understated yet authentic, effortlessly navigating between moments of tragedy and maintaining a composed demeanor. This film showcases one of her most subtle portrayals, underscoring the challenging yet liberating storyline. The authenticity she brings to the character heightens the impact of the film's central message of forgiveness.

1. 'Moulin Rouge!' (2001)

Image via 20th Century Studios

The Oscars may have given Kidman the Best Actress award for The Hours as a sort of consolation prize for overlooking her work in the extravagant musical Moulin Rouge! Kidman understands the absurdity of the material and fits perfectly with its quirky tone. In the film, Kidman plays Satine, a vivacious stage performer who falls in love with the penniless writer Christian. Kidman gives an incredible performance, showcasing both Satine's stage persona and her tender moments with Christian. While it may not have won her an Oscar, Moulin Rouge! is undoubtedly one of Kidman's best performances and a career highlight.