In the drama 'The Roses', Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch engage in intense confrontations, mimicking the turbulence found in both love and war.
In the world of entertainment, careers often take unexpected turns, and this is no truer than in the case of Ivy and Theo, two characters brought to life by Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch in the new film 'The Roses.' While Ivy's career as a chef finds new life, Theo's career as an architect takes a nosedive, setting the stage for a compelling story of marital disintegration.
Directed by Jay Roach, 'The Roses' is a reimagining of the classic novel, 'The War of the Roses.' The film moves briskly, lasting under two hours, and offers a contemporary clash of egos and expectations. Roach's update recognizes contemporary ambition and shifting gender roles as factors that can destabilize marriages, breathing new life into the timeless tale.
Tony McNamara co-writes the script alongside Jay Roach, crafting sharp and darkly comic dialogue that starts with an imploding couples-therapy scene. The dialogue is a highlight of the film, with Colman's performance balancing dry humor with quiet fury, while Cumberbatch showcases a transition from bubbling hurt to explosive rage as Theo Rose.
The film infuses the story with modern-day sensibilities and sharp humor, but it must be said that it fails to deliver the no-holds-barred meanness of the original. In the process, some of the film's soul is lost, but for audiences seeking sharp dialogue and sensational acting, 'The Roses' is worth seeing.
The rest of the cast, while talented, is mostly sidelined in the film. Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon play Barry and Amy, a couple whose physical chemistry is absent in the movie. Jamie Demetriou's character Rory and Zoe Chao's character Sally harbor resentment throughout the film, adding layers to the already complex narrative.
For those unfamiliar with the original, 'The Roses' tells the story of Ivy and Theo Rose, a couple whose relationship implodes within their custom-built dream home. Allison Janney delivers a vicious performance as a divorce lawyer in the movie, adding another layer of tension to the already tumultuous relationship.
In conclusion, 'The Roses' is a compelling watch, offering a fresh take on a classic tale. While it may not reach the savage heights of the original, it is a worthy addition to the canon, showcasing the talents of its stellar cast and offering sharp dialogue and dark comedy. For audiences seeking a thought-provoking film that tackles the complexities of modern relationships, 'The Roses' is a must-see.
