Rose Byrne Delivers “Virtuosic” Performance in New Dramedy “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” – Trailer Released

Los Angeles, CA – Rose Byrne’s latest project, the highly anticipated dramedy “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” is slated for theatrical release on October 10th. The film, written and directed by Mary Bronstein, has already garnered significant critical acclaim following premieres at both the Sundance and Berlin Film Festivals.

The film centers on Linda, a woman grappling with a cascade of personal crises – a child’s mysterious illness, a detached husband, a missing person, and a fraught relationship with her therapist. Byrne’s performance has been lauded as a career high, with Variety‘s Peter Debruge calling it “a feverish, raw-nerve performance sure to go down as one of the year’s greats.” He further described the film as “a virtuosic portrait of mental unraveling.”

The recently released trailer showcases Byrne’s intense portrayal, featuring a particularly striking scene where her character confronts her therapist, played by Conan O’Brien, demanding guidance only to be met with dismissive advice.

byrne’s performance at the Berlin Film Festival earned her the prestigious Silver Bear for best lead performance, solidifying the film’s position as a major contender this fall.the ensemble cast includes Conan O’Brien, Danielle Macdonald, Delaney Quinn, Mary Bronstein, Christian Slater, and A$AP Rocky.

“If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” distinguishes itself not just through its stellar cast and Byrne’s commanding performance, but also through its exploration of complex emotional landscapes. The film taps into a growing cinematic trend of portraying mental health struggles with nuance and unflinching honesty.This approach resonates with audiences seeking authentic and relatable narratives, moving beyond simplistic depictions of psychological distress.

The film is produced by Sara Murphy, ryan Zacarias, Ronald Bronstein, Josh Safdie, Eli Bush, Conor Hannon and Richie Doyle, with Rose Byrne and Mary bronstein serving as executive producers.[Trailer Embed Here – as per original article]

The October 10th release promises a compelling cinematic experience, offering a raw and intimate look at the challenges of navigating life’s moast tough moments. “if I Had legs I’d Kick You” is poised to spark conversation and leave a lasting impression on audiences.

How does “Teh Unexpected Alex Reed” build upon Rose ByrneS established career versatility?

Rose Byrne Shines in A24’s New Dramedy

A Deep Dive into “The Unexpected Alex Reed”

Rose Byrne’s latest role in A24’s “The Unexpected Alex Reed” is already generating notable buzz. The film, a dramedy exploring themes of family, regret, and second chances, marks a compelling addition to A24’s consistently strong filmography. Byrne delivers a nuanced performance as Eleanor Vance, a successful architect returning to her small hometown after a decade-long absence. The film’s success hinges on its relatable characters and Byrne’s ability to portray complex emotions with subtlety.

The Plot & Key Themes

“The Unexpected Alex Reed” centers around Eleanor’s unexpected return for her estranged father’s wedding.Her arrival stirs up old tensions and forces her to confront unresolved issues with her family, notably her sister, played by newcomer Maya Rodriguez.

Key themes explored in the film include:

Family Dynamics: The film realistically portrays the complexities of sibling relationships and the lasting impact of childhood experiences.

Second Chances: Eleanor’s journey is one of self-discovery and the possibility of rebuilding fractured relationships.

Small-Town Life vs. Big-City Ambitions: the contrast between Eleanor’s sophisticated urban life and the slower pace of her hometown is a central element of the narrative.

Regret and Forgiveness: The film delves into the weight of past mistakes and the challenges of seeking and offering forgiveness.

Byrne’s Performance: A Masterclass in Subtlety

Rose Byrne is known for her versatility, seamlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles.In “The Unexpected Alex Reed,” she showcases her range, delivering a performance that is both vulnerable and strong. Critics have particularly praised her ability to convey Eleanor’s internal conflict through subtle facial expressions and body language.

Nuance and Depth: Byrne avoids stereotypical portrayals,creating a character that feels genuinely flawed and relatable.

Emotional Range: She effortlessly navigates the film’s emotional spectrum,from moments of quite introspection to scenes of intense confrontation.

Chemistry with Co-Stars: Her on-screen chemistry with Maya Rodriguez is particularly noteworthy, adding authenticity to their complex sisterly dynamic.

Cinematography: The film’s cinematography,helmed by rising star Julian Bell,utilizes natural lighting and long takes to create a sense of intimacy and realism.

Soundtrack: The soundtrack features a blend of indie folk and ambient music, enhancing the film’s emotional impact.

Directorial Vision: Director liam walker’s purposeful pacing and focus on character development align with A24’s commitment to thoughtful storytelling.

The Supporting Cast & Their Contributions

While Byrne anchors the film, the supporting cast delivers equally compelling performances.

Maya Rodriguez: As eleanor’s sister, Rodriguez brings a raw energy and vulnerability to her role.

James O’connell: O’Connell plays the father, providing a grounded and sympathetic portrayal of a man seeking happiness.

Supporting Roles: The ensemble cast, comprised of largely unknown actors, adds to the film’s authenticity and sense of place.

Sundance Buzz: The film generated significant buzz at Sundance, quickly becoming a hot topic among industry insiders.

Awards Season predictions: Early predictions suggest that Byrne could be a contender for Best Actress nominations at the upcoming awards season. The film itself is also being tipped for awards in categories such as Best Original Screenplay and Best Cinematography.

Box Office Potential: A24’s marketing campaign is expected to generate strong box office numbers, particularly among audiences who appreciate independant and character-driven dramas.

Where to Watch & Further Information

“The Unexpected Alex Reed” is scheduled for a wide release on August 15th, 2025.

Theaters: Check your local listings for showtimes.

Streaming: The film will be available on demand through various streaming platforms starting September 1st, 2025.

Official Website: visit the official A24 website for more information: https://www.a24films.com/ (This is a placeholder link).

Social Media: Follow A24 on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Rose Byrne’s Career Trajectory: A Look Back

Rose Byrne’s career has been marked by a consistent ability to deliver memorable performances in a wide range of genres. From her breakout role in “Insidious” to her comedic turns in “Bridesmaids” and “Neighbors,” Byrne has proven her versatility and star power. “The Unexpected Alex Reed” represents a significant step forward in her career, showcasing her dramatic range and solidifying