Kaylah Walton
When you’re part of a Hollywood duo, it’s common to be asked to star in a film together. This technique is popular as audiences are intrigued to observe a real couple’s dynamic, and films provide a glimpse into that world.
In 1999, Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise had this experience while working on ‘Eyes Wide Shut’.
In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Kidman shared details about the film and collaborating with Cruise, who was her partner at the time until 2001.
The renowned director, Stanley Kubrick, approached the couple to star in the movie. According to Kidman, the director “leveraged” their real-life relationship to shape the film.
“He posed numerous questions but had a clear vision of the narrative,” she recalls about the late director. Nearly 25 years later, Kidman remembers one phrase Kubrick frequently reiterated to her and Tom: “He would caution us, ‘Triangles are tricky. When dealing with a triangle, caution must be exercised as one individual may feel singled out in the group’.”
Kidman reflects on the challenges of collaborating with Tom Cruise as her partner
Some actors opt to share screen time with their real-life partners due to the natural chemistry and allure between them.
For others, individual projects are preferred. Kidman shares her perspective on working with Cruise: “Gender dynamics influence this scenario. Stanley favored women, hence his dynamic with Tom was distinct. They focused more on developing his character together.”
This experience also deepened their bond as Kidman and Cruise found themselves spending nearly all their time together: “Although we had a home just 10 minutes away, we practically lived in the dressing room. Stanley required us to share it due to budget constraints.”
