Isabel Greenberg’s fascination with alternate worlds is evident in her graphic novels set in ‘Early Earth.’ Her works, The Encyclopedia of Early Earth (2013) and The One Hundred Nights of Hero (2016), delve into intricate mythologies and narratives. While the former explores creation myths, the latter draws inspiration from One Thousand and One Nights, featuring a woman who uses storytelling to fend off unwanted advances. The graphic novel has been adapted into the film 100 Nights of Hero, which preserves its feminist themes but simplifies its narrative structure.
Set in a patriarchal society where women are suppressed, Greenberg’s story introduces Cherry, played by Maika Monroe, who must resist seduction attempts from Manfred, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine, as part of a wager. To protect Cherry, her maid Hero (Emma Corrin) weaves captivating tales each night to distract Manfred. The film focuses on a single story within this framework, involving three literate sisters, one of whom is portrayed by Charli xcx, omitting the book’s complex storytelling layers.
Despite reducing the mythic complexity, director Julia Jackman, co-writing with Greenberg, captures a visual richness reminiscent of Tarsem Singh’s The Fall and Wes Anderson’s style. The film’s aesthetic features vivid colors and stylized performances, emphasizing themes such as Cherry’s purity and Manfred’s menace through their contrasting attire. The film’s visual appeal aligns with the current trend of sharing content on social media platforms.
The film’s striking visuals and moments, such as Manfred’s violent display of a hunted deer, are designed to be easily shared on social media, adapting folktales to the digital age. While it remains uncertain if the film will gain popularity, starting with Greenberg’s graphic novel might offer a fuller experience of her storytelling.
100 Nights of Hero is available for streaming now.
