Rose Byrne on the role that has put her in the running for an Oscar | 7.30

Key Concepts

• Motherhood & Parental Limitations: The film explores the darker, more isolating, and often unspoken aspects of motherhood, including feelings of inadequacy and the potential for confronting personal limitations.
• Genre Defiance: The film blends elements of horror, comedy, gallows humor, and surrealism, resisting easy categorization.
• Unconventional Casting: The deliberate choice of non-traditional actors like Conan O'Brien and ASAP Rocky to play key roles, aiming for unexpected chemistry and tonal impact.
• The Role of Therapy: The film examines the complexities of therapy, its limitations, and the cyclical nature of seeking help.
• Societal Judgement of Mothers: The film touches upon the intense scrutiny and judgment mothers face, referencing the Lindy Chamberlain case as a metaphor.

The Film’s Exploration of Motherhood and Genre

The interview centers around Rose Byrne’s role in a film that defies easy categorization, blending horror, comedy, and a deeply unsettling portrayal of motherhood. Byrne emphasizes that the screenplay, written and directed by Mary Bronstein, was “exceptional” and “like fire,” possessing a unique tone that was both “gallows humor” and “surreal.” The script deliberately broke rules, articulating “what people think but don’t say” about the challenges and darker aspects of parenthood. Bronstein is described as “anti-establishment” and “a little punk,” qualities reflected in the film’s unconventional approach.

A central theme is the isolating experience of motherhood. Byrne highlights a pivotal line delivered by her character, Linda: “I’m one of those people who’s not supposed to be a mom.” This statement encapsulates the film’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about parental limitations and societal expectations. The film’s success with diverse audiences – horror fans at Toronto and more sophisticated viewers at New York – demonstrates its ability to resonate on multiple levels, with audiences finding humor and recognition in its portrayal of parental struggles.

Unconventional Casting and its Impact

The film’s director, Mary Bronstein, intentionally cast against type, choosing Conan O’Brien as Linda’s therapist. Byrne explains that Bronstein sought “unexpected scene partners” to create unique energy and chemistry. O’Brien, a talk show host, initially needed convincing to take on the role, but ultimately “dived in” to portray a detached and ineffective therapist. This casting choice was a deliberate attempt to avoid a “typical route” and explore a more radical dynamic.

Similarly, ASAP Rocky was cast in a role identified by A24, demonstrating a willingness to work with fresh talent. Byrne notes that working with comedians, like Martin Short previously, prepared her for the unpredictable nature of acting opposite O’Brien. The pre-existing audience relationship with these performers – 28 years of O’Brien listening to people on his show versus his detached listening in the film – added another layer of complexity and humor.

The Dynamics of Therapy and the Film’s “Love Story”

The film delves into the complexities of therapy, exploring its limitations and the potential for a cyclical dependence on professional help. Byrne recalls being struck by the revelation that Linda herself is in therapy, attending sessions while simultaneously acting as a therapist to others. This symmetry, she believes, is a key element of the script.

She describes the relationship between Linda and her therapist as the “love story” of the film, framing their eventual breakup as the catalyst for Linda’s complete unraveling. Once the therapeutic relationship ends, Linda loses all “guardrails” and descends further into chaos. Bronstein, having personal experience with therapy, aimed to portray its nuances and potential pitfalls.

Societal Judgement and the Lindy Chamberlain Reference

The film subtly addresses the intense scrutiny and judgment mothers often face. Byrne points to a passing reference to the Lindy Chamberlain case – a highly publicized Australian case involving the disappearance of a baby and the subsequent wrongful conviction of the mother – as a metaphor for this societal pressure.

She explains that motherhood often exists on a spectrum between being ignored and being revered, and that the film aims to capture the experience of being “seen” by other parents who have faced similar challenges. The script is filled with “little signposts” and cyclical horror elements, such as Linda ignoring a patient’s postpartum psychosis only to potentially experience a similar fate herself.

Key Arguments and Perspectives

The central argument presented is that the film offers a refreshingly honest and unflinching portrayal of motherhood, challenging conventional representations and acknowledging the darker, more complex realities of parenthood. Byrne emphasizes that the film’s success lies in its ability to resonate with audiences on multiple levels, prompting both laughter and recognition. The film’s unconventional approach to genre and casting further reinforces its willingness to break boundaries and explore uncomfortable truths.

Notable Quote: “It’s like what people think but don’t say. It’s what in your darkest moments being a parent, you may confront yourself with your limitations.” – Rose Byrne, describing the screenplay’s honesty.

Conclusion

The film, as described by Rose Byrne, is a daring and unconventional exploration of motherhood, therapy, and societal judgment. Its success stems from its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, its unique blend of genres, and its deliberate casting choices. The film’s ability to resonate with diverse audiences suggests a hunger for more honest and nuanced portrayals of parental experiences, moving beyond idealized representations and acknowledging the complexities and limitations inherent in raising children. The film’s core takeaway is a recognition of the isolating and challenging aspects of motherhood, and a subtle critique of the societal pressures placed upon parents.