Pop Commentary

Amy Adams takes a daring leap in the surreal drama-comedy “Nightbitch,” directed by Marielle Heller, delivering a performance that is both raw and refreshingly unique. Adams plays an unnamed woman, referred to as Mother, who sets aside her career as an artist to become a stay-at-home mom. However, her new domestic life spirals into the bizarre as she begins to suspect she’s transforming into a dog.

When I first heard about this film earlier in 2024, it was touted as a potential vehicle for Adams to finally secure her long-awaited Academy Award. While her performance is stellar and deserving of recognition, it’s likely too niche to compete with more mainstream contenders.

The film had a limited theatrical release, and unfortunately, I couldn’t catch it at my local AMC theaters in Denver. I had to wait until its Hulu debut on Dec. 27, which is a shame because “Nightbitch” deserved a wider audience. The trailer did the film no justice, misrepresenting it as a lighthearted domestic comedy. Instead, the movie is a profound exploration of motherhood, self-discovery, and the struggle to reclaim one’s identity and passion.

Adams delivers a nuanced performance, blending humor and vulnerability as her character grapples with her transformation. Her comedic timing shines, particularly in the quirky dog transformation scenes, though I wish the film had leaned further into the absurdity of these moments. The film’s tonal shift toward a more serious narrative in its latter half felt a bit jarring, and I would have appreciated more playful scenes to balance it out.

Scoot McNairy co-stars as the Father, bringing a grounded performance that complements Adams’ more eccentric portrayal. While I wasn’t overly familiar with his previous work, I recognized him from “True Detective” and recent films like “A Complete Unknown.” His dynamic with Adams felt authentic, capturing the well-meaning but flawed communication between spouses.

Visually, “Nightbitch” is captivating, with cinematography that weaves flashbacks and imagined scenarios seamlessly into the narrative. These moments effectively provide insight into the Mother’s inner thoughts, adding depth and humor to the story.

Though not the year’s best film or a clear awards contender, “Nightbitch” is an intriguing, thought-provoking watch, especially for parents or fans of Amy Adams. It’s a bold exploration of the highs and lows of motherhood, made all the more compelling by Adams’ willingness to take creative risks.

Whether you’re drawn by its surreal premise or Adams’ performance, “Nightbitch” is now streaming on Hulu and worth a spot on your watchlist.