In the ’90s and ’00s, Nicole Kidman starred in romantic comedies such as Flirting and Bewitched. In her latest film, Netflix’s A Family Affair, she returns to the genre as the lead role. Playing Brooke, she engages in a romantic relationship with a younger movie star, Chris, played by Zac Efron. This dynamic shocks her daughter Zara, who works as Chris’ under-appreciated assistant. At 57, Kidman joins the ranks of over-40, Oscar-winning actors taking on female rom-com lead roles, challenging Hollywood’s biases against women in these roles.
Directed by Richard Lagravenese, A Family Affair, along with other films like Mamma Mia!, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, and The Idea of You, fights against the snobbery and sexism surrounding rom-coms. These movies celebrate women’s sexual desire, autonomy, and self-discovery at any age. The success of these films proves that audiences want to see women over 40 in romantic comedies.
Comparisons between Kidman’s role in A Family Affair and Anne Hathaway’s role in The Idea of You are inevitable. Despite backlash, Hathaway defends her choice to star in rom-coms, emphasizing the importance of having fun and not being boxed into certain roles due to age or awards. Kidman also took on her role in A Family Affair to enjoy herself after working on a more intense project.
The idea that mature actresses shouldn’t lead rom-coms due to their age is rooted in misogyny. Women over 40, 50, and 60 are reclaiming the rom-com space, portraying characters who find love and navigate life’s challenges. These films show that sexual desire and joy are not limited by age. Other actresses like Brooke Shields and Reese Witherspoon are also taking on rom-com roles, challenging stereotypes and showcasing the diversity of women’s experiences.
The shift in portraying women over 40 in rom-coms is a response to stereotypes, limitations, and patriarchal norms in Hollywood. By representing women of all ages in romantic comedies, these films contribute to societal changes and promote empowerment for women. As Witherspoon says, it’s not just about older women leading rom-coms, but about telling honest stories about women’s experiences at every stage of life.