Nicole Kidman has seen a lot of success in the film industry, but it was not always the case, especially not when she was just starting out. In 1986, Kidman starred in the Australian film Windrider. The film is directed by Australian cinematographer, writer, and director Vince Monton.
Windrider follows the story of an enthusiastic windsurfer, Stewart, who prepares for the upcoming world windsurfing championship with the help of his wealthy and supportive father. However, his path crosses with rock singer Jade, and everything else in his life takes a backseat.
While Kidman played the role of Jade in Windrider, Australian actor Tom Burlinson played Stewart. According to The Movie Database and Australian Cinema, Windrider was made on a budget of A$2.5 million, and it could only make $19,387 at the box office, in total (via The Numbers).
Kidman has had a handful of flops in her career, including Practical Magic, which may be a cult classic, but made no magic at the box office. Despite falling short, Sandra Bullock and Kidman are returning with a highly anticipated sequel very soon.
Back in 2008, The Guardian deemed Kidman the “Queen of the Flops“, pointing out a trend in Hollywood at the time. A trend that claimed Kidman has become “hard to sell.”
What Did the Audience Think of Windrider?
Not many people have spoken out about Windrider and what they think of the romantic comedy. However, there are a few comments here and there that give a glimpse into what went on in the audience’s mind while watching the film.
For example, a user on IMDb stated that it had a “bad script and some marginal acting“. Despite the harsh words, they added, “I actually enjoyed this movie.“
Another gave it 6 out of 10 points, claiming, “I’m surprised it isn’t more popular – it really feels like a classic, enjoyable type of movie. It’s not great, but it’s definitely good, and I’d recommend it.” Windrider is rated 5.1/10 on IMDb.
On Rotten Tomatoes, where the audience score is 11%, fans had mixed feelings as well. Some loved the “happy harmlessness” of it all, while some stated that the dialogues were bad and the nudity was unnecessary.
Basically, it’s harmless fun if you want to go give it a watch and see what Kidman was like before she became THE Nicole Kidman.
Nicole Kidman Met Her Ex-Boyfriend on Windrider
Nicole Kidman met actor Tom Burlinson on the set of Windrider, and sparks immediately flew. They went on to date for three years before going their separate ways.
Talking to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian actor claimed that this was Kidman’s first adult relationship, and added that they were happy together before deciding to take their own paths.
He said,
Nicole Kidman and I made a movie, ‘Windrider‘, in 1986 and dated for three years. I was 11 years older and it was her first relationship with a man as an adult. We had happy times, but she had her own path to take in life. One thing that has been written about us, which is incorrect, is that I asked her to marry me and she said no.
It was through Burlinson that actress Deborrah-Lee Furness met Kidman. She told The Australian Women’s Weekly (via Now to Love), “Nicole and I met through Tom Burlinson, who she was dating when she about 17. She slept on the couch and partied.”
Take a look at Kidman’s dating history here.
Windrider may not have brought in big bucks, but it sure gave Kidman beautiful memories. Have you seen the movie yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Stream Windrider on Prime Video.
