Since voicing the nurturing mother penguin Norma Jean in George Miller’s 2006 family hit Happy Feet, Nicole Kidman has gone on to continue her career with a diverse list of roles.

In 2007, Kidman went out of this world with The Invasion, co-starring Daniel Craig. In this action-packed alien adventure, an unleashed virus threatens the future of humanity. Also in 2007, Kidman starred in the film adaptation of fantasy writer Phillip Pullman’s novel The Golden Compass.

Kidman played a different kind of role in the comedy drama Margot at the Wedding. This film was closer to earth and portrayed a slice of a normal American family. It was made with a lower budget than Kidman’s previous films.

In 2010, Kidman starred in the somber Rabbit Hole, playing a mother who has just lost her son. This film is a return to Kidman’s roots as a dramatic actress, as she expertly channels emotions from the depth of human despair.

Coming up in 2012, Kidman will star in horror thriller Stoker as the mother of a teenage girl mourning the death of her father when a mysterious uncle suddenly shows up to meet the family. This film, directed by celebrated Korean filmmaker Chan-wook Park, is one to look out for, as it will surely be making its rounds on the awards circuit upon its release.