The Roses, the much-anticipated reimagining of Danny DeVito’s 1989 dark comedy The War of the Roses, has arrived with Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman leading the way. Directed by Jay Roach and written by Tony McNamara, the film updates the infamous story of marital collapse with biting wit and contemporary ambition. The result has critics divided but audiences buzzing about what many are calling one of the most talked-about films of 2025.
A Modern Spin on a Classic
According to BBC News, the new adaptation brings Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner’s iconic sparring roles into the present day. Cumberbatch plays Theo, an architect whose career unravels just as his wife Ivy, played by Colman, flourishes as a star chef. Resentment builds as Theo becomes a stay-at-home father, training their children for sports scholarships, while Ivy jets across America opening restaurants. The glossy but tense setting makes their unraveling marriage both entertaining and unsettling.
Performances That Cut Deep
The New York Times highlights how the actors’ chemistry anchors the film. Their portrayal of Ivy and Theo Rose is “fascinatingly combustible,” striking a balance between comedy and raw emotional pain. Colman in particular shines in moments of icy detachment, while Cumberbatch captures Theo’s blend of arrogance and insecurity. The film employs tonal shifts, sometimes playing for laughs and at other times delving into heartbreak.
On-Screen Conflict, Off-Screen Friendship
Despite their characters’ hostility, Cumberbatch and Colman are close friends in real life. As NPR reports, the pair relished the chance to work together after years of friendship. They described the project as “selfishly” motivated by their desire to share the screen. Off camera, their support for one another contrasts sharply with the savage barbs and physical comedy of their on-screen marriage meltdown.
Critical Response to ‘The Roses’
Reviews have been mixed. The Independent praised the film as “relentlessly entertaining,” while The Telegraph called the leads “deliciously savage”. Meanwhile, The Guardian offered a harsher two-star verdict, criticizing what it saw as an overly polished rom-com sheen. Still, whether adored or criticized, the movie has proven difficult to ignore, sparking renewed conversations about the fine line between love and rivalry in modern relationships.
Looking Ahead
Neither Colman nor Cumberbatch seems overly concerned with reviews. Instead, they’ve hinted at future collaborations, though Colman joked she’s unlikely to tackle a stage play again. With both stars still deeply embedded in major franchises—Cumberbatch returning as Doctor Strange and Colman teasing new Disney+ projects—their partnership in The Roses may mark the start of more joint ventures to come.
For fans eager to see a sharp blend of comedy, drama, and marital warfare, the Roses movie 2025 offers exactly that. Whether you side with Ivy or Theo, the performances make it clear why Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman remain two of Britain’s finest screen talents. And for all the bitterness on display, The Roses proves a film well worth picking.
With a collective experience in film analysis and entertainment journalism, our team, comprised of avid movie buffs, has always been on the frontline of exploring cinematic universes, from the enchanting realms of Disney to the action-packed scenes of the MCU.
Our passion has led us to exclusive interviews with notable figures, early access, and active participation in the industry.
Recognized by the press, we dive deep into various genres, including drama, cartoons, comedy, and foreign films, always eager to bring fresh insights to our readers.
Connect with us or explore our journey to learn more about our adventures in unraveling the magic of the big screen.
