In 1996, Nicole Kidman worked with “one of the greatest actors”. He slapped her in the face 100 times
Nicole Kidman has recalled that John Malkovich struck her with a gloved hand around 100 times while they filmed a scene for *The Portrait of a Lady*. The account illustrates the physical demands of pursuing realism on set and offers a glimpse of the intense experiences early in Kidman’s career.
The pair made the 1996 adaptation of Henry James’s novel, with Kidman playing Isabel Archer and Malkovich her husband, Gilbert Osmond. Kidman also described Malkovich standing on her hem to trip her during filming. The article connects that demanding shoot with her later work on *Eyes Wide Shut*, which was filmed over roughly 400 days.
In short
- Malkovich reportedly slapped Kidman with a glove about 100 times.
- The scene was filmed for the 1996 adaptation of *The Portrait of a Lady*.
- Kidman later endured a roughly 400-day shoot for *Eyes Wide Shut*.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A demanding physical scene can help actors convey a character’s fear and vulnerability with immediacy, and a performer may willingly accept repeated takes as part of pursuing a truthful performance. Kidman’s account also presents the experience as part of an intense period of work with an actor she regarded highly, rather than as a claim that the scene itself was improper.
The case against
Realism does not by itself justify repeatedly striking or tripping a performer: physical scenes should be planned and bounded so actors can work safely and retain meaningful control. Even when an actor agrees to demanding work, the power dynamics and pressures of a film set make clear consent, communication and safeguards important.
Explained simply
The Portrait of a Lady is a 1996 film based on Henry James’s 1881 novel. Nicole Kidman plays Isabel Archer, an independent American woman who marries Gilbert Osmond, played by John Malkovich.
The story follows Isabel as she navigates marriage, money and personal freedom in European society. Kidman and Malkovich were established actors whose work together came early in Kidman’s film career.
The film’s production is part of a wider discussion about the physical demands actors may face when scenes are made to feel realistic. Kidman later worked on Eyes Wide Shut, a film known for its lengthy production.