
The Roses
dir. Jay Roach
64
8 sourcesSynopsis
Life seems easy for picture-perfect couple Ivy and Theo: successful careers, a loving marriage, great kids. But beneath the façade of their supposed ideal life, a storm is brewing – as Theo's career nosedives while Ivy's own ambitions take off, a tinderbox of fierce competition and hidden resentment ignites.
Critics consensus
The Roses' blend of broad comedy and dark satire makes for an uneasy marriage, although watching Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch trade barbs is a treat onto itself.
Audience consensus
Cumberbatch and Colman’s acerbic marital war in The Roses is both affecting and hilarious, and while the film occasionally strains credulity, their performances elevate the adapted material to notable new heights.
What resonated with audiences
'The Roses' is a polarizing dark comedy that offers sharp humor with some tonal inconsistencies. Many praise the movie for its biting satire and the exceptional chemistry between Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, who both deliver standout performances. The supporting cast, including Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon, are also highlighted for adding depth to the film's exploration of modern relationships and societal pressures. Others, however, feel the film fails to match the dark comedy of the 1989 original, finding its pacing and tone to be erratic. Reviewers enjoy the film's British wit and modern take on classic themes, but its mixed reception suggests that while it has moments of brilliance, it may not fully satisfy all viewers.

Directed byJay Roach
StarringOlivia Colman, Benedict Cumberbatch, Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Belinda Bromilow, Ncuti Gatwa
Written byTony McNamara
CinematographyFlorian Hoffmeister
EditingJon Poll
MusicTheodore Shapiro
The Roses
2025 · R · 1h 45m
Comedy, Drama
Life seems easy for picture-perfect couple Ivy and Theo: successful careers, a loving marriage, great kids. But beneath the façade of their supposed ideal life, a storm is brewing – as Theo's career nosedives while Ivy's own ambitions take off, a tinderbox of fierce competition and hidden resentment ignites.
Our Verdict
64
What resonated with audiences
'The Roses' is a polarizing dark comedy that offers sharp humor with some tonal inconsistencies. Many praise the movie for its biting satire and the exceptional chemistry between Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, who both deliver standout performances. The supporting cast, including Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon, are also highlighted for adding depth to the film's exploration of modern relationships and societal pressures. Others, however, feel the film fails to match the dark comedy of the 1989 original, finding its pacing and tone to be erratic. Reviewers enjoy the film's British wit and modern take on classic themes, but its mixed reception suggests that while it has moments of brilliance, it may not fully satisfy all viewers.
Critics Consensus
The Roses' blend of broad comedy and dark satire makes for an uneasy marriage, although watching Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch trade barbs is a treat onto itself.
Audience Consensus
Cumberbatch and Colman’s acerbic marital war in The Roses is both affecting and hilarious, and while the film occasionally strains credulity, their performances elevate the adapted material to notable new heights.
