180 – Birth

What this episode covers

We’re finally talking about one of our most requested films, Johnathan Glazer’s 2004 sophomore feature Birth. Starring Nicole Kidman as a woman grappling with a young boy’s assertion that he is her reincarnated dead husband, the film was initially controversial and critically maligned upon release, even with stunning work from composer Alexandre Desplat and cinematographer Harris Savides. Undoubtedly a complex and confounding film, it is perhaps most notorious for the unbroken close-up of Kidman’s face that wordlessly conveys her belief in the impossible. But in the near two decade since, Birth has been reassessed as a major achievement for Glazer, but is also seen by many as one of Kidman’s finest performances. This episode, we discuss the film’s meaning and the controversy over the bathtub scene that overshadowed its release. We also talk about the underrated Anne Heche, Kidman’s chances to win a second Oscar this year for Being The Ricardos, and Kidman’s balancing between star roles and working with auteurs. Topics also include Lauren Bacall lovingly calling Kidman “a beginner,” our 2004 Best Actress picks, and the upcoming 20th anniversary of The Hours. Follow Us on Twitter! @Had_Oscar_Buzz Joe: @joereid Chris: @chrisvfeil