A24 is set to adapt the graphic novel “Somna: A Bedtime Story,” a project that blends eroticism with horror, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre. The story follows a young woman named Ingrid during the 17th-century witch trials in England, exploring themes of desire, repression, and societal judgment.
Conceived by creators Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay, “Somna” intricately weaves elements of sensuality and the supernatural. The graphic novel, released in 2023, has gained traction and is now anticipated as a notable project for A24 in 2025. It captures a chilling narrative that resonates with contemporary issues regarding women’s autonomy and societal expectations.
Ingrid is depicted as a woman grappling with her sexual curiosity amidst a society that equates pleasure with sin. The story dives deep into her psychological struggle, where a spectral presence in her dreams encourages her desires, which are deemed “unholy” and “sinful.” As she navigates her relationship with her husband, Ronald, a witch hunter, Ingrid faces the harsh reality of being ostracized by her community for her awakening.
The graphic novel’s potent themes echo the fears and restrictions women face even today. It serves as an allegory for the oppressive structures that dictate how women should behave, drawing parallels to contemporary gender norms. Cloonan emphasizes the importance of this narrative, stating, “I started talking to Tula about collaborating on an erotic horror over 10 years ago. It started as a self-indulgent amalgam of our love for Hammer Horror and smut… but evolved into a more serious study of desire and repression.”
As the story unfolds, readers witness Ingrid’s transformation as she crosses an “erotic threshold,” leading to dire consequences. The chilling atmosphere combined with erotic tension propels the narrative, leaving readers questioning the nature of desire and purity. Cloonan describes the project as both a joy and a challenge, sharing that the collaboration was an enriching experience where both artists contributed to the narrative and visual elements equally.
Lotay adds that the creative process was fueled by their shared inspirations, saying, “You’re also witnessing Becky and I intertwining two art styles… a bit like Ingrid and The Shadowman — both from the real world and the erotic subconscious.” Their partnership resulted in a rich tapestry of storytelling that blends horror with sensuality.
The anticipation for a film or streaming series adaptation of “Somna” is palpable as 2025 comes to a close. With its thought-provoking themes and captivating narrative, the graphic novel is already available as a collected hardcover, providing readers with a glimpse into a world where desire and fear collide.
As audiences await news of an adaptation, “Somna” stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of its themes, offering a provocative exploration of identity, desire, and societal constraints. This project not only showcases the artistic talents of Cloonan and Lotay but also invites discussion about the narratives surrounding female sexuality and empowerment in both historical and contemporary contexts.
