BAZ Luhrmann`s choice of Nicole Kidman to star in his latest epic movie Australia has been savaged by a British newspaper columnist.
Melanie Reid, writing in the Times newspaper, describes as a "big, big mistake" Luhrmann`s decision to select Kidman for the role of Lady Sarah Ashley, who inherits a remote cattle station shortly before World War II.
Reid says Kidman was an immediate turn-off for female cinemagoers who feel she is "one of the most overrated actors" in the world and who has "been the kiss of death in practically every movie she has starred in".
The newspaper critic also slammed Kidman`s acting ability based on her previous starring roles in films including Cold Mountain and Eyes Wide Shut.
"Kidman is exquisitely accomplished at being awful," Reid wrote.
"She can`t act.
"Instead she drifts around films like a lost porcelain doll, looking frozen, brittle and vapid, staring at the camera with her oh-golly-look-how-I`m-looking-interesting blue eyes.
"Australia the country deserves redder blood than this."
Australia is due to open in Britain on Boxing Day.
Reid says Kidman was an immediate turn-off for female cinemagoers who feel she is "one of the most overrated actors" in the world and who has "been the kiss of death in practically every movie she has starred in".
The newspaper critic also slammed Kidman`s acting ability based on her previous starring roles in films including Cold Mountain and Eyes Wide Shut.
"Kidman is exquisitely accomplished at being awful," Reid wrote.
"She can`t act.
"Instead she drifts around films like a lost porcelain doll, looking frozen, brittle and vapid, staring at the camera with her oh-golly-look-how-I`m-looking-interesting blue eyes.
"Australia the country deserves redder blood than this."
Australia is due to open in Britain on Boxing Day.
