Rose Byrne: Anxiety Thriller Review | ‘If I Could Kick You’

“If I Could, I’d Kick You” Delivers a Two-Hour Anxiety Attack, Showcasing Rose Byrne’s Career-Best Performance

A24 continues to demonstrate a keen eye for challenging and rewarding cinema with the release of “If I Could, I’d Kick You,” a film described as a “two-hour long anxiety attack” that quietly landed in theaters after a accomplished festival run. Despite a likely limited box office run – its American theatrical release barely exceeded $1 million – the film underscores a critical truth: some of the most impactful cinema is also the most challenging to digest.

The start of 2026 has been notably “disastrous and discouraging,” leading many to seek escape through cinema. Though, one analyst noted that film also offers a different kind of experience – one that doesn’t shy away from discomfort. This is the space where filmmakers like the Safdie brothers (“Good Time,” “Diamonds in the Rough”) excel, and where director Mary bronstein now firmly establishes herself.

“If I Could, I’d Kick You” distinguishes itself through a striking tonal duality. Marketed as a black comedy, the film presents a “dark, twisted and uncomfortable sense of humor” that masks a deeper exploration of motherhood, female roles within family structures, and existential crises.As one source stated, it’s “cannon fodder for the most apprehensive.”

Did you know? – A24 is known for distributing independent films that often push boundaries and garner critical acclaim, despite not always achieving mainstream box office success.

The film’s success rests on three key elements.First, Bronstein’s script is relentlessly paced and features dialog that “become real throwing weapons” in the hands of its actors. This is particularly evident in the performance of Rose Byrne, who delivers what is being hailed as the best of her career, recently recognized with a Golden Globe. The performance is described as “exhausting-in the best sense of the word.”

Complementing Byrne’s achievement is the film’s impeccable cinematography, led by director of photography Christopher Messina. he maintains a constant focus on the protagonist, utilizing depth of field and claustrophobic framing to immerse the audience in her anguish.This technique allows viewers to “feel her anguish firsthand,” solidifying the film’s emotional impact.

Pro tip – Films exploring difficult themes often benefit from repeat viewings, allowing audiences to unpack layers of meaning and appreciate nuanced performances.

Despite its artistic merits, “If I Could, I’d Kick You” faced a limited release, earning just over $1 million domestically. The film centers on Eleanor, a mother grappling with the pressures of societal expectations and her own internal turmoil. The narrative unfolds through a series of increasingly tense interactions with her family, particularly her husband and children. The escalating conflict stems from Eleanor’s suppressed frustrations and a growing sense of isolation.

The film’s climax occurs during a seemingly ordinary family dinner, which devolves into a chaotic and emotionally raw confrontation. Eleanor’s carefully constructed facade crumbles, revealing years of pent-up resentment and despair. the scene is characterized by harsh dialogue, physical outbursts, and a complete breakdown of communication. Ultimately, the film ends with Eleanor leaving her family, embarking on an uncertain path toward self-discovery. The ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the audience to contemplate the long-term consequences of her actions and the possibility of reconciliation.

serves as a potent reminder that the most compelling cinema often challenges and unsettles, and that Rose Byrne possesses a remarkable range beyond comedic roles.

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