The upcoming film adaptation of Rachel Yoder’s 2021 novel *Nightbitch* is generating excitement, with the release of its first full-length trailer. Starring Amy Adams, the film depicts the story of a new mother who experiences an unexpected transformation into a dog. Yoder’s novel deftly captures the artistic monster trope of a mother grappling with her creative, ‘feral’ self amidst the demands of domestic life. The trailer offers a glimpse into the film’s visual style, showcasing the challenges of translating the subtle complexities of Yoder’s prose into a cinematic experience.
While the depiction of therianthropy, or human-animal shapeshifting, might rely on CGI, director Marielle Heller’s past work gives reason for optimism. Her previous film, *Can You Ever Forgive Me?*, demonstrates her ability to bring unconventional stories about women’s lives to the screen. *The Diary of a Teenage Girl*, her directorial debut, further showcases her talent for balancing humor and drama in narratives that explore the complexities of human experience.
*Nightbitch* appears to share thematic similarities with films like *Tully* and early seasons of *Transparent*, exploring the experiences of young, relatively affluent white artists who transition into motherhood. However, the novel’s unique blend of fantasy and realism suggests a compelling adaptation under Heller’s direction, known for her dry, fantastical sensibilities. Even if *Nightbitch* doesn’t perfectly translate to the big screen, the film’s success could potentially encourage Hollywood to invest in projects that embrace the unconventional and allow women to be authentically weird, both in front of and behind the camera.
