Rose Byrne and Mary Bronstein Discuss New Film ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’

The new film “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” directed by Mary Bronstein, is making waves in theaters and on PVOD platforms. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, the film features Rose Byrne in what many are calling the performance of her career. Set against the backdrop of a troubled family in Montauk, the narrative follows Linda, a therapist and mother grappling with her daughter’s serious illness, marital issues, and her own spiraling mental health.

Byrne portrays Linda, a character who is entrenched in chaos. With her daughter, played by Delaney Quinn, requiring a feeding tube and her husband, Christian Slater, largely absent, Linda resorts to unhealthy coping mechanisms. She turns to cheap wine and marijuana, seeking comfort in self-destructive behaviors rather than confronting her problems. The film artfully captures the absurdity of her situation, blending humor with a poignant critique of motherhood and personal trauma.

Bronstein, who also wrote the film, brings her unique perspective as both a filmmaker and someone with a background in psychology. The movie’s narrative is deeply personal, reflecting Bronstein’s own experiences with motherhood and the pressures that accompany it. “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” explores the complexities of mental health through Linda’s interactions with her clients and her own therapist, played by a deadpan Conan O’Brien.

Unique Vision and Artistic Intent

The film has garnered comparisons to “Uncut Gems,” yet both Byrne and Bronstein argue that such comparisons are reductive. While both films evoke strong emotional responses, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” stands out for its female perspective. Bronstein emphasized the need for independent films that challenge conventional narratives, stating, “Art, and even entertainment, is so subjective… the more specific something is, the more somebody can find themselves in it.”

Byrne’s performance is lauded for its depth, combining elements of comedy and drama in a way that has rarely been seen from her before. She explained the film’s unique approach to humor and emotional intensity, highlighting its blend of lighthearted and heavy themes. “Mary puts it so beautifully… this film exists in both those sorts of places,” Byrne said.

The film’s title also provokes discussion, with Bronstein encouraging audiences to derive their own meanings. “Whatever your idea is is correct,” she remarked. The title reflects the film’s exploration of interpersonal dynamics, particularly in the context of Linda’s struggles and her desperate pleas for understanding and support.

A Film Worth Experiencing

A24, the film’s distributor, has entered “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” into the Oscar race, positioning it alongside other notable films such as “Marty Supreme” and “The Smashing Machine.” This decision underscores the film’s potential impact on audiences and critics alike.

While some may find the film an endurance test, Bronstein and Byrne assert that it is a cathartic exploration of trauma and motherhood. “The movie’s really radical, and it’s very punk rock,” Byrne noted, emphasizing its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about parenting and personal identity.

As the film opens in theaters on October 10, 2025, audiences are invited to engage with its challenging themes and the emotional journey of a woman at the brink. “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” promises to be a conversation starter, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of modern motherhood and mental health.