This remake of the iconic 1980s divorce farce cleverly transforms the original narrative into a piercing black comedy, brilliantly portrayed by the talented duo of Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman. With an abundance of chaos and destruction, the film, titled The Roses, explores the tumultuous marriage of Ivy and Theo Rose, whose once blissful relationship has devolved into a rancid partnership. The performances by Colman and Cumberbatch are executed with droll perfection, making this film a standout in the genre.
The Roses draws inspiration from Warren Adler's novel, The War of the Roses, which was initially adapted into a successful 1989 divorce comedy featuring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. This new version revitalizes the story, making it relevant to contemporary audiences. The film captures the essence of modern materialism, shedding light on how the pursuit of money and success can lead to the deterioration of marital bonds.
The screenplay, penned by Tony McNamara, known for his work on The Favourite and Poor Things, is a masterclass in black comedy. Coupled with the directorial expertise of Jay Roach, famous for Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers, The Roses successfully finds humor in the depths of family dysfunction. Their collaboration proves to be a winning formula, bringing both wit and depth to the narrative.
The film opens near the end of Ivy and Theo's relationship, where their therapist delivers the harsh truth: their marriage is doomed. This moment sets the stage for a flashback that reveals the couple's initial romance in a witty and unconventional meet-cute. Ivy, a chef, and Theo, an architect, cross paths in a London restaurant just before Ivy's big move for work. Their instant connection is both charming and humorous, showcasing McNamara's knack for clever dialogue.
Fast forward ten years, and Ivy and Theo are now settled in California with two young children. Their marriage, once thriving on sardonic humor, begins to strain as Theo's career falters while Ivy's culinary venture flourishes. This clever reversal from a romantic comedy to a realistic portrayal of marital decline reveals the complexities of love and ambition. Throughout the film, we witness Ivy becoming engrossed in her burgeoning restaurant empire, which leads to the gradual disintegration of their relationship.
Colman and Cumberbatch's performances are nothing short of remarkable. Their comedic timing elevates the dialogue, making even the simplest lines resonate with humor. A standout moment occurs when Ivy, speaking to their AI assistant Hal, delivers a light-hearted yet loaded response that encapsulates the film's blend of comedy and depth. Despite their stellar performances, some supporting roles, such as those played by Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon, fall flat, detracting from the overall impact of the film.
Overall, The Roses presents a smart, entertaining mix of droll British humor and polished Hollywood filmmaking. While it features moments of weakness in certain supporting characters, the film successfully navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and the pitfalls of modern marriage. With a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes, this black comedy is sure to resonate with audiences, earning a solid ★★★★☆ rating.
