Six-time Academy Award nominee Amy Adams is broadening her repertoire with "Nightbitch," a production of Searchlight Pictures. The film, an adaptation of Rachel Yoder's 2021 novel of the same name, is written and directed by Marielle Heller.
Adams portrays a character known simply as Mother, a talented artist and an overworked stay-at-home mom looking to catch a break while caring for her son (Arleigh Snowden), a toddler who keeps her hands full day and night. She loves her seed deeply but also feels alone and exhausted, buckling from the urge to break under the numbing daily grind. Slowly losing control of her emotions and primal urges, Mother begins to see and hear things in the night that beckon to her.
Something feral is taking hold within her, allowing her to unleash an inner power and identity that has been suffocated by the challenges and isolation of her domestic routine for years. Meanwhile, her other half, known only as Husband (Scoot McNairy), is a relatable, sensitive man frequently away on business and struggles with his challenges as a parent.
I've been a fan of Amy Adams since her one-off appearance on the first season of "Smallville," it's been great to watch her make it to the A-List. With "Nightbitch," she truly gets a chance to show her range. I appreciated the creative team's choice to depict Adams as an unnamed mother who faces the woes of tough motherhood and relentless bullying from her son each night, leading her to severe sleep deprivation that seems impossible.
Taking this angle will allow the women who view the film to fully relate to her characters' struggles, which is where the film finds its footing. One key plot point that stuck out was the critique that fathers are automatically deemed good parents simply because they lend a hand at home or engage in childcare when it suits them. Mcaniry fully taps into the role and excels at being a tool.
Despite this, the film consistently returns to Adams, who immerses herself in her character within untamed environments. Adams delivers an unquestionably remarkable and potentially career-defining performance. Her portrayal exudes wildness, courage, and humor, demonstrating a dedication to the character. The intricacy of her acting is apparent in the subtle nuances of her facial expressions, powerfully conveying her emotions of frustration, happiness, and sorrow.
Adams authentically embodies motherhood, reflecting a profound sincerity likely influenced by her own real-life experiences as a mother. This personal connection enriches her portrayal, establishing an authenticity that is both relatable and true to life.
While I enjoyed the film, I see it as decisive among mainstream audiences for its bold choices. Nevertheless, with a short run time and an award-worthy performance from Adams, I recommend the film, especially for mothers.
Final Grade: B+
"Nightbitch" opens in theaters on December 6, 2024
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