CANNES, France — Nicole Kidman was honored at the Kering Women in Motion Gala during the Cannes Film Festival, using her acceptance speech to call for greater support and investment in women in film—especially as they age.
“I’m so happy to be here supporting women’s voices in cinema,” Kidman said at the gala held at Place de la Castre. “It ain’t over.”
The Oscar winner received a standing ovation after a tribute reel of her iconic roles, including Moulin Rouge and The Hours. Cannes delegate Thierry Frémaux, festival president Iris Knobloch, and Kering CEO François-Henri Pinault presented the award, praising Kidman as a “Cannes legend.”
In her speech, Kidman reaffirmed a pledge she made in 2017—to work with a female director every 18 months. Since then, she’s collaborated with women on 27 film and TV projects and has expanded her focus to include female writers, cinematographers, and crew.
“We need to give women better roles, particularly as they get older,” she said. “We will make money for you. Invest in us and believe in us.”
Her recent film Babygirl, directed by Halina Reijn, grossed $64.5 million worldwide, reinforcing her point.
Kidman now joins past Women in Motion honorees like Viola Davis, Michelle Yeoh, and Salma Hayek Pinault. Hayek Pinault called Kidman a trailblazer who “opened the way for many of us.”
Director Coralie Fargeat and actress Tessa Thompson also praised Kidman for taking risks and actively supporting women in film. “She opens the door,” said Thompson. “That’s what it takes.”
Also recognized at the event was Brazilian director Marianna Brennand, who received the Emerging Talent Award for her debut film Manas. She described meeting Kidman as one of the greatest moments of her life.
Launched in 2015, Kering’s Women in Motion program highlights women’s contributions to cinema. With Kidman’s voice now part of that legacy, its impact continues to grow.
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