The Roses

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a picture-perfect marriage starts to crack under pressure, The Roses dives headfirst into that chaos—with a sharp, satirical edge. Directed by Jay Roach and written by Tony McNamara, this 2025 black comedy reimagines the classic story from Warren Adler’s novel and the 1989 film adaptation. With Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman leading the charge as Theo and Ivy, a seemingly flawless couple whose relationship spirals into a full-blown war, the film delivers both laughs and cringe-worthy moments in equal measure.

Set over more than a decade, the story follows Theo, an architect, and Ivy, an aspiring chef, as they build a life together in California. At first, things seem idyllic—successful careers, adorable twins, and a beautiful home. But when Theo’s career takes a nosedive and Ivy’s restaurant empire takes off, the balance of power shifts. What starts as subtle tension soon erupts into a full-on domestic battlefield, complete with sabotage, emotional warfare, and some seriously dark humor.

The Roses is not your typical rom-com. It’s a biting look at ambition, ego, and the unraveling of a relationship that once seemed unbreakable. Cumberbatch and Colman are a dynamic duo, delivering performances that are both hilarious and heartbreaking. The supporting cast—featuring Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Allison Janney, and more—adds extra flavor to the chaos, making the film feel both grounded and absurd in the best way.

This movie is perfect for fans of dark comedies and relationship dramas with a satirical twist. If you enjoyed films like The War of the Roses or Marriage Story but wish they had a bit more bite (and maybe a few more laughs), this one’s for you. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a feel-good love story or a lighthearted comedy, The Roses might feel a bit too intense or cynical.

With mixed reviews from critics but a solid B+ from audiences, it’s clear that The Roses strikes a chord—though not always a harmonious one. Whether you love it or hate it, one thing’s for sure: this is a marriage story you won’t forget anytime soon.