Rose Byrne Shines in Bleak, Dark Comedy "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You"

The Oscar-nominated film is now streaming on HBO Max

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

"If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," an unsettling 2025 Oscar-nominated film starring Rose Byrne, has been added to HBO Max. The movie follows a psychotherapist named Linda whose life is unraveling as she deals with her daughter's medical condition and a lack of support from her husband Charles, played by Christian Slater. Byrne delivers an intense and versatile performance that anchors the film's dark humor.

Why it matters

This offbeat film doesn't fit neatly into drama or comedy genres, but showcases Rose Byrne's acting range and the versatility of performers like Conan O'Brien. It also provides a bleak yet darkly comedic look at the challenges of maintaining mental health and relationships in the face of mounting personal and professional setbacks.

The details

Writer and director Mary Bronstein has crafted a surreal exploration of one woman's breaking point. Linda's life spirals as she loses her apartment, faces her daughter's medical issues, and encounters a dismissive therapist played by Conan O'Brien. Despite the heavy subject matter, the film finds moments of audacious humor, such as a notorious scene involving a hamster.

  • In late January 2026, HBO Max added "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You" shortly after the film's lead star, Rose Byrne, received an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

The players

Rose Byrne

An acclaimed actress who delivers a tour-de-force performance as the film's lead character, Linda, a psychotherapist whose life is unraveling.

Mary Bronstein

The writer and director who has crafted this surreal, genre-blending film that explores one woman's breaking point.

Christian Slater

An actor who plays Linda's husband, Charles, who provides little emotional support as his wife's life falls apart.

Conan O'Brien

The former late-night talk show host who gives a standout performance as Linda's dismissive and snarky therapist.

ASAP Rocky

The musician who plays James, the one truly sympathetic ear that Linda has in the film.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

"If I Had Legs I'd Kick You" is a bold, genre-blending film that showcases Rose Byrne's acting prowess and the versatility of its supporting cast. While the subject matter is bleak, the film's dark humor provides a unique and compelling viewing experience for those willing to embrace its unsettling tone.