Rose Byrne and Mary Bronstein Discuss New Film’s Emotional Depth

The film “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” is now playing in theaters and available for digital rental, showcasing a remarkable performance by Rose Byrne as Linda, a therapist grappling with the overwhelming challenges of motherhood and personal trauma. Directed by Mary Bronstein, the film offers an intense exploration of a woman’s struggles against the backdrop of a crumbling family life and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it.

Set in Montauk, the narrative centers on Linda, whose life is engulfed by her daughter’s mysterious illness that necessitates a feeding tube, an absent husband portrayed by Christian Slater, and a significant leak in her apartment ceiling. Rather than seeking healthy coping mechanisms, Linda turns to cheap wine and weed, all while navigating her role as a therapist whose own mental health is in question. Byrne’s performance captures the character’s chaotic spiral with a blend of humor and raw emotion, making it one of her most notable roles to date.

The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where audiences responded to Bronstein’s unique and often abrasive portrayal of motherhood. Throughout the film, Linda’s internal struggles are intensified by her clients’ issues, including a character played by Danielle Macdonald, who is horrified by the prospect of harming her newborn. The film’s stylistic choices, including the close-up work by cinematographer Christopher Messina, keep viewers focused on Byrne’s expressive performance, allowing them to experience the character’s emotional breakdowns firsthand.

Bronstein, who co-wrote the film and has an academic background in psychology, brings a distinct perspective to the narrative. During development, she drew inspiration from personal experiences with motherhood, although she remains private about the specifics. The film’s title, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” reflects a deeper metaphor, inviting viewers to engage with its themes on a personal level. Bronstein emphasizes that interpretations of the title and the film’s content are subjective, allowing for a diverse range of viewer experiences.

The industry is already buzzing about the film’s potential for awards consideration, and A24 is entering it into the Oscar race alongside other notable films. Critics have highlighted Byrne’s performance as a frontrunner for nominations, indicating a significant shift in her career trajectory. Bronstein notes that the film is not designed to appeal to everyone, stating, “If something is for everybody, it’s for nobody.” This sentiment underscores the film’s unique vision and its position within the landscape of independent cinema.

In an interview, Byrne reflected on the film’s emotional intensity, stating that it requires audiences to confront their own traumas while navigating the absurdities of life. She described the filming process as both exhausting and exhilarating, noting the constant tension her character experiences. The film’s structure challenges traditional narratives surrounding motherhood and mental health, focusing instead on the complexities and realities faced by those in distress.

As the conversation surrounding “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” continues, both Byrne and Bronstein express hopes for its impact on viewers. They aim to highlight the often-unspoken struggles of motherhood and mental health, fostering a dialogue that extends beyond the screen. The film is now available in theaters and for digital rental, having officially opened on October 10, 2025.