Key Highlights
- The screenplay “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” is being highlighted in A24’s Read the Screenplay series.
- Mary Bronstein, writer-director of the film, has been garnering accolades for both her script and directing at Sundance Film Festival.
- Rose Byrne stars as a therapist who spirals into anxiety over a mysterious daughter illness and other personal challenges.
- The movie showcases heightened comedy in trauma, with a focus on a mother’s emotional state.
Introduction to “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You”
In the latest installment of A24’s Read the Screenplay series, the buzzworthy dramatic comedy “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” is being spotlighted. This film, written and directed by Mary Bronstein, premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, drawing significant attention for its raw portrayal of maternal anxiety.
Background on the Script
Mary Bronstein’s journey to creating “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” was a lengthy one. According to Bronstein, she spent seven years developing the screenplay after being inspired by her own experiences as a mother dealing with family illness. Despite stating that the story is not factually autobiographical, it resonates deeply due to its emotional accuracy and candid portrayal of a mother’s struggle.
Cast and Production Details
The film stars Rose Byrne in a leading role as a therapist who finds herself increasingly spiraling into anxiety. Her personal life becomes further complicated by the mysterious illness of her daughter, the disappearance of a patient, an absentee husband, and even her own therapist trying to abandon her. Supporting cast includes Conan O’Brien, Danielle Macdonald, Christian Slater, A$ap Rocky, and Delaney Quinn.
Accolades and Reception
Mary Bronstein’s screenplay has already made waves in the industry, earning Gotham Awards nominations for both script and directing. Rose Byrne, known for her roles in Hollywood blockbusters, is also on a roll with recent Golden Globe, Critics Choice, and Spirit Award nominations following her performance in the film.
Expert Analysis
Mary Bronstein emphasizes the importance of accurately depicting maternal anxiety without romanticizing it. She notes that this aspect of the film’s portrayal has been largely missing from previous movies, making “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” a unique and powerful addition to the genre.
With its intense drama and sharp comedy, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” is set to captivate audiences at Sundance and beyond. The screenplay’s authenticity and depth make it a standout in this year’s festival lineup.
If you’re interested in reading the full screenplay, you can do so below:
Stay tuned as “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” continues to gather momentum and see where its journey takes us next.
For more updates on the film and Mary Bronstein’s work, follow our coverage closely.