Nicole Kidman and Mimi Cave on Holland; “Idyllic and fantastical at the same time”

By Ryan Lobo -

March 27, 2025 - 8:51 AM IST

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Holland, Michigan, Holland an upcoming psychological thriller starring Nicole Kidman as Nancy Vandergroot. At first glance, the town appears as a serene haven, defined by windmills and vibrant tulip fields. However, beneath this idyllic setting lies an undercurrent of mystery and unease. Kidman, discussing her character, describes Nancy as someone who outwardly embraces the "white picket fence type life," yet harbours a deep sense of restlessness. "She’s someone that has the idea of what it means to be in a very sort of idyllic white picket fence type life. But there is a restlessness to her and a desire underneath, and I think that's where we find her at the beginning," Kidman explains.

Nicole Kidman and Mimi Cave on Holland; “Idyllic and fantastical at the same time”

As the story unfolds, Nancy begins to suspect that her seemingly perfect life is not as it appears. Driven by intuition and doubt, she embarks on a quest for the truth, uncovering secrets that threaten the stability of her world. Her husband, played by Matthew Macfadyen, becomes the focus of her suspicions, adding to the film’s intense psychological drama.

One of the film’s most striking elements is its setting. Holland, Michigan, with its Dutch-inspired architecture and annual Tulip Time Festival, serves as a striking contrast to the film’s underlying tension. Kidman acknowledges this contrast, stating, "I want to point out that when you say windmills and tulips, you don't necessarily think of Holland, Michigan. Which was part of the appeal of setting this, because as Mimi will explain, it's set against a backdrop that is kind of idyllic and fantastical at the same time."

Director Mimi Cave continued about the choice of setting, emphasizing its cinematic appeal. "I was just in Holland, Michigan last night doing a screening, and we talked a lot about this, why Holland, Michigan? And I think that it's so similar to a lot of other suburbs in the United States, but it does have something special to it. And they've really maintained this rich tradition. They have all of these wonderful traditions like Tulip Time Parade and the Windmill. So, they've really kind of have a slice of the past that they've really upheld. And it's just a really cinematic backdrop that I think helps tell the story visually for sure."

Directed by Mimi Cave, Holland premiered at the 2025 South by Southwest Festival on March 9 and is set for release on Amazon Prime Video on March 27, 2025. The film has already generated buzz for its unique combination of suspense, psychological complexity, and striking visuals. While early reviews have been mixed, Kidman’s performance has been widely praised for bringing depth and nuance to her role.

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