From the moment she engulfs the screen, Rose Byrne gives a haunting performance in Mary Bronstein’s "If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You," a visceral, anxiety-inducing exploration of motherhood, mental health, and the unraveling of a woman's life.
In this film, described as an unflinching portrayal of a woman on the brink of collapse, Byrne plays Linda, a therapist turned patient.
This film is a wild ride that will leave you gasping for air.
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| Rose Byrne |
Bronstein's masterful direction puts Byrne front and center as Linda, a worn-out mom on the brink of collapse.
Her life is a maelstrom of chaos with a child struggling with a mysterious illness, an absentee husband nagging her about everything, and a therapist who's more interested in his own notes than her well-being.
The film's use of close-ups, sound design, and cinematography creates a claustrophobic atmosphere, plunging the audience into Linda's world of despair.
Byrne delivers a tour-de-force performance, conveying Linda's complex emotions with a nuanced intensity that's both captivating and heartbreaking. She shines in this complex role, effortlessly oscillating between exhaustion, anger, and desperation.
Her performance is nothing short of phenomenal, making it easy to empathize with Linda's plight.
Her portrayal of a woman teetering on the edge of sanity is both mesmerizing and devastating.
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| Conan O'Brien |
The supporting cast, including Conan O’Brien as Linda's therapist and A$AP Rocky as a motel clerk, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
O'Brien provides a delightfully awkward contrast to Byrne's unraveling character.
His deadpan delivery provides a darkly comedic counterpoint to Byrne's frenzied performance, while Rocky's presence injects a sense of empathy and humanity into the film.
Through Linda's story, Bronstein sheds light on the often-invisible struggles of motherhood, mental health, and the expectations placed on women.
The themes of motherhood, mental health, and societal pressures are timely and thought-provoking.
Bronstein's script doesn't shy away from exploring the taboo aspects of motherhood, where the expectation of unconditional love and care can be suffocating. Linda's struggles will resonate with many, and the film's conclusion can leave audiences breathless.
The film's unflinching gaze into the abyss of Linda's psyche is both a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a scathing critique of the societal pressures that drive women to the breaking point.
The film's dark humor and satire are biting, poking fun at the impossible expectations placed on mothers. Linda's world is turned upside down —literally and figuratively —by a gaping hole in her ceiling, which becomes a potent metaphor for her emotional state.
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| A$AP Rocky |
A$AP Rocky's turn as a motel neighbor offers brief moments of levity, but even his charm can't distract from the crushing weight of Linda's responsibilities.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its deliberate choice not to show Linda's child on camera, putting the focus squarely on Linda's psychological journey. This decision adds to the sense of claustrophobia and anxiety that permeates the film, making it a viscerally emotional experience.
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| Rose Byrne |
"If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You" is not an easy watch, but it's a powerful and thought-provoking film that lingers long after the credits roll.
It’s a stunning, anxiety-inducing film that will linger long after the credits roll.
With its outstanding performances, masterful direction, and unflinching portrayal of the human condition, this film is a must-see for anyone interested in complex, challenging cinema.
‘If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You,’ written and directed by Mary Bronstein and starring Rose Byrne, Conan O’Brien, A$AP Rocky, Danielle Macdonald, and Christian Slater.
On the DONLOE SCALE: D (don’t bother), O (oh, no), N (needs work), L (likeable), O (oh, yeah), and E (excellent), ‘If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You,’ gets an E (excellent).
Recommendation: This film is not suitable for all audiences. Viewer discretion is advised due to mature themes, strong language, and intense emotional content.
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