Review: ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ Delivers Dark Comedy with Rose Byrne

The highly anticipated film, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, is now available on various Video on Demand platforms, including Amazon Prime Video. This dramedy, produced by A24, features Rose Byrne in a leading role that showcases her unique blend of comedy and drama. Directed by Mary Bronstein, who previously gained recognition for her 2008 film Yeast, the film has already sparked discussions regarding potential awards recognition for Byrne’s performance.

The narrative revolves around Linda, portrayed by Byrne, a mother grappling with overwhelming challenges. Linda’s world is depicted as chaotic, emphasizing her struggle to maintain control amidst a series of escalating crises. The film opens with a striking portrayal of her life, characterized by a sense of anxiety and disarray that is palpable throughout the narrative.

Plot Overview and Themes

In an intriguing stylistic choice, the film keeps Linda’s daughter, voiced by Delaney Quinn, largely off-screen. This absence creates a unique dynamic as the audience hears her high-pitched demands, which serve as a constant reminder of Linda’s mounting pressures. Linda is depicted as a mother who feels stretched thin, likened to “stretchable” putty, a metaphor that resonates deeply as the film progresses.

The film does not shy away from illustrating the grim aspects of Linda’s life. Her husband, voiced by Christian Slater, is mostly absent, leaving her to navigate the complexities of parenting alone. Linda faces the daunting task of caring for a daughter with a serious medical condition, requiring a feeding tube and constant monitoring. This relentless situation is exacerbated by their living conditions, as a ceiling collapse has forced them into a cramped motel room, where the beeping of medical equipment is an ever-present reminder of her struggles.

Bronstein’s direction effectively captures Linda’s internal turmoil. The film is rife with moments that highlight her desperation, from her food-related mishaps to the emotional strain of her therapy sessions, where she is confronted with her own inability to manage her life. Byrne’s portrayal is both humorous and heart-wrenching, drawing viewers into her chaotic existence.

Performance Highlights and Cinematic Style

Byrne’s performance is central to the film’s impact, as she navigates the delicate balance between comedy and drama. She is supported by notable performances from Conan O’Brien, who plays her therapist, and A$AP Rocky, who is featured as the building superintendent. O’Brien’s character provides a poignant counterpoint to Linda’s struggles, showcasing the challenges therapists face when their clients resist help.

The film’s cinematography, led by Christopher Messina, often focuses on close-ups of Byrne, emphasizing her emotional state and creating an intimate viewing experience. This technique fosters a sense of disorientation that mirrors Linda’s mental state, allowing the audience to empathize with her plight.

Despite its darker themes, the film incorporates moments of levity, such as a humorous scene involving a hamster that highlights Linda’s desperation for a moment of peace. Although the film does not feature explicit content, it effectively conveys the strain of motherhood and the lengths to which parents go to seek solace.

Ultimately, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You stands out for its ability to blend dark humor with poignant commentary on the challenges of modern parenting. The film may leave viewers feeling both discomforted and entertained, as it navigates the complexities of motherhood with a raw authenticity. For those seeking a film that pushes boundaries while offering a relatable narrative, this dramedy is worth watching.

In summary, Byrne’s performance shines in a role that is both challenging and rewarding. As audiences engage with Linda’s story, they may find themselves reflecting on the broader themes of resilience and the often unseen battles faced by parents. This film is a testament to the talent of its cast and crew, making it a recommended watch for those interested in contemporary cinema.