Rose Byrne is set in a tense nightmare where she imagines having legs to kick someone

Motherhood in Cinema: A Deep Dive into the Darker Side of Parenting

Films have long portrayed the unique struggles of motherhood, often highlighting the intimate connection between a mother and her child. From classics like Mildred Pierce to more recent films like Nightbitch, filmmakers have attempted to capture the complexities of motherhood.

In American society, mothers are often blamed for their children’s behavior while fatherhood is considered optional and held to a lower standard. This societal pressure leaves many mothers feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, with little room to prioritize their own well-being.

Recent films like Tully and Nightbitch have shed light on the darker aspects of motherhood, exploring themes of exhaustion and loss of self. In Nightbitch, Amy Adams portrays a stay-at-home mother who grapples with feelings of hopelessness and isolation after giving up her career for her son.

In Mary Bronstein’s upcoming film, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” the narrative delves into the horror of motherhood through the story of Linda, a working mother thrust into a housewife role against her will. The film strips away the typical bright and pastel portrayals of motherhood, focusing on Linda’s overwhelming responsibilities caring for her daughter’s health issues while her husband is away.

As Linda struggles to navigate her daughter’s health demands, she is faced with a crumbling ceiling in her home, forcing her and her daughter to live in a motel. Amidst the chaos, Linda forms a complex relationship with Jamie, played by A$AP Rocky, while grappling with her own emotional breakdown.

Bronstein’s film paints a bleak picture of motherhood, highlighting the relentless nature of parenthood and the societal expectations placed on mothers. The film’s intense visuals and raw performances, particularly Rose Byrne’s portrayal of Linda, offer a harrowing look at the challenges mothers face.

“If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and is set to be released by A24, promising a poignant exploration of the pressures and sacrifices of motherhood.



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