Nightbitch Movie Review: A Bold Dive into Motherhood, Identity, and Transformation

If you’re looking for a movie that’s as wild, visceral, and thought-provoking as its title suggests, Nightbitch is a must-watch. Written and directed by Marianne Heller and based on the critically acclaimed novel by Rachel Yoder, the film blurs the lines between reality and surrealism, offering a bold commentary on motherhood, identity, and the power of transformation.

At its core, Nightbitch tells the story of a stay-at-home mother, struggling with the monotony of domestic life, who begins to suspect she is transforming into a dog. While this premise might seem absurd on the surface, the film treats it with surprising depth and nuance, using it as a lens to examine the ways motherhood can both empower and dismantle a woman's sense of self.

Amy Adam's lead performance is mesmerizing. Her portrayal of the protagonist's journey—from exhaustion and monotony to wild, feral liberation—is raw with intensity and vulnerability. The film captures the protagonist's gradual unraveling and awakening with an honesty that feels both unsettling and exhilarating.

Visually, Nightbitch is stunning. The director employs a rich, almost tactile aesthetic that mirrors the protagonist's shifting relationship with her own body and instincts. The film oscillates between the stark realism of daily life and dreamlike sequences that feel pulled from the subconscious, creating a sense of unease and wonder. The use of sound design is particularly striking, with growls, whispers, and ambient noises heightening the tension and blurring the line between human and animal.

At its heart, Nightbitch explores themes that resonate deeply with modern audiences. It fearlessly tackles the societal expectations placed on women, the isolation that can come with parenting, and the suppressed desires that lie beneath the surface.

• Motherhood and Identity: The film examines the often-unspoken struggles of motherhood, from feelings of isolation to the loss (and reclamation) of self. One of the most compelling aspects of Nightbitch is its ability to balance the grotesque with the tender. Amidst the protagonist’s surreal metamorphosis, there are moments of genuine and joyous connection, particularly with her child, that remind us of the profound love that often underpins even the most chaotic experiences of parenthood. The movie’s fearlessness in tackling taboo subjects and pushing boundaries makes it a standout piece of storytelling.
• Societal Expectations: The film challenges traditional roles and the pressure women feel to conform. It asks bold questions: What happens when the roles we're assigned fail to contain us? What does it mean to reclaim one's identity?
• Transformation and Liberation: The protagonist’s journey is a powerful metaphor for breaking free from constraints and embracing one’s untamed instincts. The film doesn’t provide easy answers, but instead invites the audience to sit with the discomfort and power of transformation.

Nightbitch isn’t your typical feel-good family drama. Its dark humor, surreal elements, and visceral imagery might not appeal to all viewers. However, for those open to its wild and unapologetic energy, the film offers a deeply cathartic and thought-provoking experience.

In the end, Nightbitch is less about literal transformation and more about what it means to shed societal constraints and embrace one’s true nature—however messy, frightening, or liberating that might be. It’s a daring, unforgettable piece of storytelling that lingers long after the credits roll.

Watch the trailer here. The film is available for streaming on Hulu.

For further reading, see Emily Nussbaum's fantastic profile on Marielle Heller and the making of the movie in The New Yorker.

Read Rachel Yoder's book, Nightbitch.