Nightbitch
Plot
The story of a mother of a young boy, who gave up her job to be a stay at home mother. giving up her career as an artist she now lives in a repetitive world, where her entire existence is her son, husband and cat.
When she begins to show signs of ‘changing’ she believes she is turning into a dog.
Direction
One of the film’s themes which will be discussed later is that of ‘new parenthood’. The main character who is a new mum, is seen throughout the film to have a very repetitive life (cooking breakfast, playing with her son, cleaning etc) that is shown in repetitive cuts of the same activity over and over and over again. This is done with very clever and quick cuts.
There is also some good work in the dark, as at times characters are seen to be either running in the dark – or ‘playing’.
Cast/Characters
Amy Adams plays the character who is simply known as ‘mother’. Her name is never mentioned. As always she does a wonderful job – and plays the role wonderfully. She is able to portray all the emotions of an overlooked, under appreciated and sleep deprived mother would be. Her chemistry with the children who play her son is adorable. Her own motherhood definitely shone through on her many moments on screen.
Scoot McNairy plays her husband, or ‘father’ – who is mostly off screen for the first act, as he is at work too much. I quite enjoyed what he brought to the table, and felt he gave a brilliant performance.
Special mention has to go to twins Arleigh and Emmett Snowden who steals every scene they are in playing the role of the son. They are almost in every scene, and they get to have plenty of dialogue along the way.
Great job!
Screenplay/Setting/Themes
There are several prominent themes at play; with most of them being around new parenthood – the change in ones identity (pre and post children), friendships (making new friends) and the change of being an introvert to extrovert
‘Mother’ also has many moments where she says aloud her inner monologue, when her intrusive thoughts come out. This also has moments that show us the audience of things she wants to do, such as telling people off, or hitting people.
It is also refreshing for a film to show just how hard parenthood is. ‘Mother’ is clearly mourning who she used to be, but still loving her child. Moments of messy homes, sleepless nights, forgetting how to socialise etc.
Score/Soundtrack
A pretty score, especially during some of the flashbacks, and becomes a tad ‘supernatural’ during some of the moments of similar elements and themes on screen.
Overall
Despite the critical panning of this film, I think it was a very nuanced film that has deeper meaning behind it than people realise. Adams gives another Oscar worthy performance – and while this probably won’t get her a nomination – she does a brilliant job in my book.
For new parents, or parents to be, I recommend this film as it shows the truth of how it really changes every part of you.
4/5
If you’re able to, please “buy me a coffee”