Emmett Snowden

The concept of motherhood is changing. According to a recent Pew Research study, many young adults have decided not to have children – more women than men. They cite many practical reasons – like the environment and high cost of living – but, above all, for women, it’s all about the sacrifices they must make. So it’s incredibly timely how Amy Adams’ new dark comedy Nightbitch captures both the happiness and horror of motherhood, along with the tedium of suburban domesticity. Known for her sculptures and installations, Mother (Adams) was once an accomplished artist. Then along came Son. Mother dutifully stays home to tend to Son while Husband (Scoot McNairy) goes off to work at a job that often takes him out of town.

If there wasn’t already an embarrassment of riches in what’s shaping up to be a stunningly competitive best actress Oscar race, along comes Amy Adams with one of her most vivid performances to date. As a sharp-edged, frightened, feral and devilishly funny stay-at-home mom, called simply “Mother,” who descends from deadened domesticity into the titular canine, Adams should earn another Oscar nomination despite the glut of awards-worthy turns from the likes of Saoirse Ronan, Angelina Jolie, Mikey Madison, Renate Reinsve, Fernanda Torres, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Demi Moore, and on and on.