In a daring exploration of motherhood’s darker corners, Rose Byrne stars in the unsettling film *If I Had Legs I’d Kick You*, directed by Mary Bronstein. The narrative delves into the taboos surrounding parental love and the crushing weight of a mother’s anxiety when faced with a gravely ill child. As Byrne, an Oscar-nominated actress fresh from a Golden Globe win, portrays a character spiralling into despair, she and Bronstein share insights into the complexities of their story and the fears that arose during its creation.
A New Kind of Horror
At first glance, *If I Had Legs I’d Kick You* may appear to be a conventional drama about a mother, Linda, grappling with her child’s severe illness. Yet, as viewers quickly discover, it is anything but ordinary. The film conveys Linda’s psychological turmoil without ever revealing the specifics of her child’s condition, which is only hinted at through the shadows of anxious medical professionals and the presence of a feeding tube. This choice amplifies the film’s sense of claustrophobia and dread, pushing the boundaries of what one might expect from a story centred on motherhood.
Bronstein, who wrote and directed the film, cites *Eraserhead* as a significant influence, noting the distinct types of parental anxieties portrayed in male and female experiences. “In *Eraserhead*, the father can leave; Linda cannot,” she explains. “This film aims to encapsulate a woman’s unique and often unspoken fears.”
The Complexity of Love
The film bravely confronts the uncomfortable notion that loving a child can sometimes feel like a burden, leading to feelings of anger and frustration. Bronstein notes, “Can you love something so much that you smother it?” This question resonates throughout the film, challenging the societal expectations placed on mothers to embrace unconditional love. Byrne’s character experiences this tension firsthand, erupting in frustration with the weight of her reality.
Byrne reveals the struggle of portraying Linda: “Even in therapy, she’s not allowed to voice her frustrations. She wants to know why other mothers seem to have it easier.” This raw honesty highlights the narrow parameters within which society allows mothers to express their emotions, further complicating the maternal narrative.
Personal Reflections and Authenticity
Bronstein draws from her own experiences as a mother, particularly the challenges she faced when her daughter was gravely ill. “Motherhood took a toll on my career and my identity,” she reflects. “It wasn’t until I hit a crisis point that I recognised I was losing myself.” This personal connection imbues the film with authenticity, making the emotional landscape all the more relatable.
As the narrative unfolds, the nature of the illness remains purposefully ambiguous. Bronstein states, “If you define it too clearly, it risks becoming a conventional story about a mother trying to cure her child.” Instead, the film focuses on Linda’s emotional landscape, making it a poignant commentary on the complexities of modern motherhood.
Breaking Stereotypes
The film’s portrayal of Linda defies traditional cinematic depictions of mothers. Byrne’s character is not only battling her child’s illness but also wrestling with her identity and desires. The film challenges expectations, as Linda’s interactions with a handsome young man, played by A$AP Rocky, further underline her emotional disconnection. “Linda is closed for business,” Byrne explains. “Even when faced with charm and beauty, she’s unable to engage.”
Bronstein adds, “The film subverts the clichés of romance, showing a woman who is too overwhelmed to explore that side of herself.” This poignant commentary on the contradictions of motherhood—held in high regard yet often dismissed—invites audiences to rethink societal norms surrounding maternal roles.
Why it Matters
*If I Had Legs I’d Kick You* serves as a powerful critique of the societal expectations surrounding motherhood, exposing the silent struggles many women face. By illuminating the complexities of maternal anxiety and the taboo feelings that often accompany it, the film not only challenges traditional narratives but also offers a voice to those who feel overwhelmed by the demands of parenting. In a world that frequently idealises motherhood, Byrne and Bronstein’s collaboration invites viewers to engage in an honest dialogue about the realities of parental love, making it a significant contribution to contemporary cinema. The film is set for release on 20 February, promising to provoke thought and discussion long after the credits roll.
