Mary Bronstein’s new screenplay, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” presents a powerful narrative demonstrating the struggles of a mother overwhelmed by family turmoil. This sophomore feature film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, receiving critical acclaim and accolades.
Plot Overview
In this tense dramatic comedy, Rose Byrne plays a therapist grappling with her spiraling life. Compounded by her daughter’s mysterious illness, she faces additional stress from a missing patient, an absentee husband, and a therapist who appears ready to abandon her.
Notable Cast
- Rose Byrne as the struggling therapist
- Conan O’Brien in a key role
- Danielle Macdonald
- Christian Slater
- A$ap Rocky
- Delaney Quinn
Accolades and Recognition
Since its premiere in Park City, the film has garnered significant recognition. Bronstein received nominations for the Gotham Awards in both screenplay and directing categories. Rose Byrne’s performance earned her multiple nominations for Best Actress at prestigious awards, including the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, and Spirit Awards.
Inspiration Behind the Film
Bronstein’s inspiration stems from her personal experiences as a mother dealing with family health issues. While she states the film is not autobiographical, it captures the “emotionally accurate” depiction of a mother caught in anxiety and shame. She wanted to highlight these feelings, which, according to her, were underrepresented in previous films.
Script Development
The journey to complete the screenplay took seven years. Bronstein expressed, “I really felt like I needed to make this movie.” Her determination led to a focused effort, essential for bringing her vision to life.
Conclusion
Mary Bronstein’s “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” offers a poignant look at the complexities of motherhood amid challenging circumstances. Its blend of humor and drama promises to resonate with audiences, as it vividly portrays the chaotic reality many parents face.
