Zendaya and Nicole Kidman discuss risk, and the art of acting

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Hollywood stars Zendaya and Nicole Kidman recently shared insights into their craft. They had a lively conversation for Variety’s Actors on Actors series.

Both actresses are celebrated for their fearless performances. They reflected on pushing creative boundaries, embracing risk, and finding joy in their work.

ZENDAYA AND NICOLE KIDMAN’S GREAT YEAR

Zendaya dominated 2024 with two standout performances. These were for her role as Chani in Dune: Part Two and the lead in Luca Guadagnino’s tennis drama Challengers, according to Variety.

Kidman, equally busy, captivated audiences in the psychosexual drama Babygirl.

Kidman opened the discussion by admitting she’s a “Dunie.” She revealed that she had watched Dune: Part Two at midnight despite jet lag.

“I was riveted,” she said. Zendaya beamed at the praise, recalling Chani’s romantic moment with Paul (played by Timothée Chalamet).

“Denis [Villeneuve] captured the sunrise over the dunes. No special effects. It felt otherworldly,” she shared.

ZENDAYA AND NICOLE KIDMAN ON THE TOLL OF ACTING

Their talk touched on the emotional toll acting can take.

Kidman revealed her struggle during intense scenes in Babygirl and Big Little Lies.

“I’d leave set bruised, physically and emotionally. Your body doesn’t know it’s fake,” she said.

Zendaya nodded in agreement. “I still have my Rue scars from Euphoria,” she admitted.

However, both stressed the importance of finding balance.

“We heal,” Kidman said. “Sometimes it’s prayer, sage, or even a massage. We have to leave the trauma on set.”

ZENDAYA’S LOVE FOR MOULIN ROUGE!

The conversation turned playful when Zendaya mentioned Moulin Rouge! as one of her favourite films, according to Vulture.

“I could sing the whole soundtrack now,” she joked.

Kidman, who starred in the Baz Luhrmann classic, encouraged her to tackle musical roles.

“Take the leap. Rip the Band-Aid off,” she urged.

Zendaya also reflected on her selection process for roles.

ZENDAYA AND CHALLENGERS

For Challengers, she was hooked after a table read. “It was heartbreaking, funny, sexy. And the character? She’s unapologetic,” Zendaya said.

Working with Guadagnino felt like a dream come true, though she admitted being nervous.

“What if he didn’t like me?” she laughed. Kidman empathised, adding, “Sometimes, you just jump. Even if it’s scary, something magical can come of it.”

The actresses also highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

CREATING A SAFE SPACE

Kidman praised her Babygirl director Halina Reijn for creating a safe space.

“It was warm and exploratory. You’d have a plan, but the best moments came from spontaneity,” she said.

Zendaya agreed, noting how trust and chemistry on set make all the difference. The two bonded over their methods for staying grounded, according to Screen Rant.

Kidman credited her family. “You can’t indulge yourself when you have kids waiting at home,” she explained.

Zendaya shared her lighter approach on tough sets. “I’d knock down a door for a scene, then ask, ‘What’s for lunch?’” she said.

POSSIBILITY OF WORKING TOGETHER

As the conversation wrapped, they teased the possibility of working together. “Let’s have fun and explore,” Zendaya said. Kidman smiled, replying, “And then decide on lunch!”

Their chat offered a rare glimpse into the art and heart behind their bold choices. South African fans will likely find inspiration in their passion for storytelling and commitment to growth.

These two powerhouses prove that even in Hollywood, success comes from taking risks, staying grounded, and embracing joy.