If I Had Legs I'd Kick You: A Stressful Parenting Drama with a Darkly Enjoyable Twist
In a thrilling and claustrophobic portrayal of motherhood, writer-director Mary Bronstein presents a gripping tale of a therapist (Rose Byrne) and her chronically ill daughter, forced into an unexpected motel stay after a ceiling collapse. This film is a pulse-raising, adrenaline-fueled journey through a mother's struggle, a high-speed car chase of emotions and a nightmare of self-discovery.
The story begins with a therapist, Linda (Rose Byrne), on the brink of a breakdown. With her husband away and a daughter with complex medical needs, she's at her wit's end. The apartment ceiling collapse is the metaphorical straw, adding to her mounting stress. This opening scene sets the tone for a deeply personal and intense narrative.
Bronstein's use of thematic nesting dolls is a clever device. The similarities between Linda and her therapist colleague, played by a steely Conan O'Brien, highlight their shared struggles. Linda's client, Caroline (Danielle Macdonald), is drowning in anxiety over her newborn, mirroring the complex emotions of motherhood. These reflections create a sense of being trapped in Linda's subconscious, emphasizing the film's central message: everyone is entangled in their own struggles.
A glimmer of hope arrives in the form of motel superintendent James (A$AP Rocky), but the camera's queasy close-ups suggest Linda's self-absorption may persist. The daughter, played by Delaney Quinn, is mostly off-screen, adding to the film's surreal and dreamlike quality. Bronstein even cameos as the eerily blank-faced Dr. Spring, further emphasizing the film's exploration of the human psyche.
Rose Byrne's fearless performance anchors the film, blending the intense downward spirals of the Safdies' work with the surrealism of 'Enter the Void'. Her portrayal keeps the narrative grimly funny and relatable, resonating with parents worldwide. Despite its lack of subtlety, the film's pressure-cooking and panic-inducing nature is perversely enjoyable, as long as viewers can handle the stress.
This unique and thought-provoking drama challenges viewers to confront their own struggles, leaving them with a sense of both relief and unease. It's a must-watch for those seeking a deeply personal and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
