The highly anticipated A24 film “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, drawing significant attention and generating considerable buzz among festival attendees. Directed by Mary Bronstein and featuring Rose Byrne in the lead role, the film explores the psychological turmoil of a mother, Linda, portrayed by Byrne, who is grappling with her daughter’s illness while facing a series of personal crises.
The narrative unfolds in a visceral and inventive manner, showcasing Linda’s struggles as they escalate from mundane inconveniences, such as a large hole in their apartment ceiling, to more intense confrontations, including an altercation with a parking attendant. Bronstein emphasized the unique perspective of focusing on the mother’s emotional state rather than the child’s suffering, highlighting the often-overlooked burden caretakers face.
Byrne and Bronstein engaged in extensive discussions to develop Linda’s character authentically before the film’s 27-day shooting schedule. Bronstein's inspiration for the film partly stems from her own experiences as a mother, although she chose not to delve into specifics. The film also features Conan O’Brien as Linda’s therapist, who expressed admiration for the artistic direction and the performances of his co-stars, indicating the profound impact of the experience on him.
The film is characterized by its ambiguity and metaphorical elements, including the titular hole, which Bronstein describes as a representation of internal struggles and emotional emptiness. Critics and audiences at Sundance have responded positively to the film, which marks Bronstein’s second feature after her 2008 debut. As anticipation builds for its official release later this year, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” has positioned itself as a significant entry in this year’s festival.