Disney+ has added an intriguing title to its streaming library with the upcoming release of “Nightbitch”.
Set to premiere on January 24, this highly anticipated film, adapted from Rachel Yoder’s critically acclaimed debut novel, promises to transport audiences into the surreal realm of contemporary motherhood.
“Nightbitch” is directed and written by award-winning director, writer, actor and producer, Marielle Heller.
Set in the suburbs, the compelling film follows a woman, played by award-winning actress Amy Adams, who pauses her career to become a stay-at-home mom. She experiences a transformation that makes her feel like she is turning into a dog.
Inspired by her personal journey, Yoder penned “Nightbitch” after encountering her own struggles with identity as a new parent.
“I was by myself, a stay home mom, something I never thought I’d be. I found myself in this sort of malaise, not knowing who I was and having really lost myself. ‘Nightbitch’ was born out of that silence,” said Yoder.
This raw and honest exploration of motherhood resonates deeply, capturing emotions that many women face but often find difficult to articulate.
Heller recalled: “I read the novel early in the pandemic right after I just had my second baby. I was in the process of living my own ‘Nightbitch’ time.
“I read the book and was like, ‘Oh my God. This is everything to me. This is finally an honest reflection of my life.’ It was really cathartic to work on this script at that time and for me it was this feeling of being seen.
Heller also sees the film as a response to “Instagram culture”, which often presents an unrealistic portrayal of motherhood that can leave women feeling inadequate.
The film follows the protagonist as she navigates the isolation of being two years postpartum while her husband is frequently away for work.
Heller explained: “We meet Mother during an interesting transitional period of her life ... she’s dealing with the repetitive nature of motherhood and reconciling this with her former self.
“By the end, as she learns to integrate her rage, hopefully she doesn’t have to ‘Nightbitch’ anymore.”
She also emphasised that “Nightbitch” isn’t just for mothers; rather, it is a relatable exploration of transformation that can resonate with anyone.
“In the same way that women have been relating to male protagonists who are in circumstances that we may not be in, this is a really relatable experience and a little bit of a lifting up of the veil.
“I just want people to feel seen and if we can be more honest about the experience of that transformation, maybe we’ll feel less alone in it.,” she ended.
Meanwhile, Adams reflected: “She (Heller) had this amazing point of view and voice for this main character which connected on a human level to the original story.
“She created a world that was very identifiable for me and I just immediately felt such a kinship and understanding of the character.”
Adams admired Heller’s work as a writer and director.
“Working with her was amazing because not only does she have this really great sensibility of film-making, but she has such a deep understanding of performance and what it takes to achieve the depth that we were hoping to achieve. I trusted her so immensely.”
Supporting performances are delivered by a talented cast including Scoot McNairy, zoë Chao, Mary Holland, Archana Rajan, and more, adding depth to this compelling cinematic exploration.
∎ “Nightbitch” will be available for streaming on Disney+ from Friday, January 24.