The Roses: A Lackluster Reimagining of a Classic

"The Roses," directed by Jay Roach and starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, is a reimagining of Warren Adler's 1981 novel "The War of the Roses." This film presents a modern take on the tumultuous marriage of Ivy and Theo Rose, whose relationship deteriorates after Theo, a talented architect, loses his job, while Ivy finds success as a restaurateur. The narrative explores themes of marital discord and the consequences of ambition, but it has received mixed reviews for its execution.

Boston Globe

The film follows Ivy and Theo Rose over 17 years of marriage, culminating in a bitter divorce battle. After Theo's architectural project collapses, he becomes a stay-at-home parent, while Ivy's seafood restaurant, “We’ve Got Crabs,” flourishes. The couple's relationship devolves into a war of words and actions, ultimately leading to their mutual destruction. Critics note that the film lacks the sharp satire and high stakes of its 1989 predecessor, which featured Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner.

The Sydney Morning Herald

Benedict Cumberbatch portrays Theo Rose, characterized as a snarky narcissist whose downfall is marked by his failed career. Olivia Colman plays Ivy Rose, a talented chef whose success exacerbates the couple's tensions. Critics have pointed out that while Cumberbatch effectively embodies his character's flaws, Colman's performance feels misaligned with Ivy's emotional turmoil. Allison Janney's portrayal of Ivy's divorce lawyer has been highlighted as a standout, bringing a level of brutal honesty that the main characters lack.

The Sydney Morning Herald

Critics have expressed disappointment with "The Roses," describing it as a "toothless" adaptation that fails to capture the original's biting satire. The screenplay by Tony McNamara has been criticized for its lack of depth in exploring the power dynamics within the marriage. Instead of presenting a compelling conflict, the film opts for a tit-for-tat narrative that dilutes the emotional stakes. The comedic relief provided by characters played by Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon has also been deemed ineffective, interrupting the film's flow.

Boston Globe

In reviews, critics have noted that the film's attempt to humanize its characters detracts from the intended satire. The Boston Globe's Odie Henderson remarked, "The Roses is so afraid to get nasty that it robs us of the film’s climactic money shot." This sentiment reflects a broader consensus that the film lacks the necessary edge to resonate with audiences seeking a sharp critique of marriage.

Boston Globe

• “The dream you’ve always wanted to be shouldn’t die on the crucifix of family life.” — Rex Reed, Film Critic

New York Observer

• “Unfortunately, “The Roses” is a toothless take on the material.” — Odie Henderson, Boston Globe Film Critic

Boston Globe

• “ Jaap Buitendijk And though I haven’t been the biggest fan of Benedict Cumberbatch, I must concede he’s very good at playing the type of guy you want to punch out.” — Boston Globe Review

Boston Globe

"The Roses" ultimately presents a lackluster reimagining of a classic tale of marital strife. While it features strong performances from its leads, the film's failure to deliver a compelling narrative or incisive satire leaves it feeling underwhelming compared to its predecessor. As audiences reflect on the film, the question remains whether the reimagining could have embraced the darker themes of its source material more fully.

Boston Globe