Nicole Kidman Reveals Intimate Trailer Life with Tom Cruise and Stanley Kubrick During ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ Filming

In a recent interview, Nicole Kidman provided a fascinating glimpse into the unique living arrangements and experiences she shared with her then-husband Tom Cruise and legendary director Stanley Kubrick during the two-year production of “Eyes Wide Shut.” The 1999 psychological drama, which became Kubrick’s final film, was marked by an extraordinary commitment from its cast and crew, particularly from Kidman and Cruise.

Kidman revealed that throughout the extensive filming period, she and Cruise opted to live in a trailer rather than their home, which was just ten minutes away from the set. This choice stemmed from a directive from Kubrick himself, who humorously insisted on a shared living space for budgetary reasons. “Stanley would say, ‘You’re not each getting a trailer. We can’t afford it,’” Kidman recounted with a smile.

The close quarters of the trailer fostered a unique camaraderie and intimacy among the small group. One notable figure who frequently joined them was their co-star Sydney Pollack, an accomplished actor and director in his own right. Pollack’s presence was not only a comfort but also a culinary delight. Kidman fondly recalled, “By the end, we’re learning how to make pasta because he’s a great cook, Sydney. Stanley would come to our trailer, we’d eat. In the little kitchen in our trailer, Sydney would make this unbelievable artichoke pasta with Parmigiano-Reggiano and this incredible olive oil and roast chicken.”

Despite the proximity of their actual home, the trailer became a true home away from home for the couple. Kidman explained that Cruise, who was often busy managing various aspects of the production, occupied a smaller area within the trailer. Amidst the demands of the film, they found time for simple pleasures, including playing video games. “Tom had a smaller area because he was running stuff. And he’d play video games. That was when ‘Minesweeper’ was big. So there was a lot of that,” Kidman shared, painting a vivid picture of their off-screen life.

The release of “Eyes Wide Shut” was bittersweet, as it marked the end of an era with the passing of Kubrick in the same year. However, the memories of those intense and intimate months remain etched in Kidman’s mind. The film, with its intricate themes and complex characters, demanded an equally profound dedication from its cast, and the close-knit living situation undoubtedly contributed to the film’s depth and authenticity.

Kidman’s reflections offer a rare and personal perspective on the making of “Eyes Wide Shut,” highlighting the human connections and everyday moments that defined an extraordinary chapter in her career. The shared meals, the laughter, and even the video games in a humble trailer underscore the essence of filmmaking as a deeply collaborative and immersive experience.