The Roses is an updated version of the 1989 film The War of the Roses. In this modernized take on the story of a married couple, Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman star as the couple whose emotions run deep – very deep.
Theo and Ivy are a devoted couple with two children. He is a successful architect and her love of cooking turns into a successful restaurant franchise. But when something goes wrong with one of his buildings, Theo is out of work, and as such, supported by Ivy.
Soon Ivy discovers how much she loves the adoration of the public for her cooking. Her life becomes her business, while Theo turns into a house-husband, bringing up the kids. Yet, he still yearns to return to architecture.
The banter between the couple has been part of their relationship from the minute they met. It continues as they ride a roller-coaster marriage – up and down and up and down. But how long can they sustain this?
This is the epitome of “dark comedy.” There are some cute and fun segments, but on the whole the dark outweighs the comedy. However, at the heart of the film is the love they have for each other, which is something they have to rediscover.
Bonus Features
One of the bonus features, “A House to Die For,” is the most entertaining part of this release as it delves into the construction of the amazing and beautiful house Theo designs for his family. It is, quite frankly, the most amazing on-screen house. The filmmakers could not build it on a cliff in Northern California, where the film takes place. Instead, they built it in the studio with blue screen wrapping around to insert the scenic beauty of the location it is supposed to inhabit. It is a modern, visually stunning house on the scale of a Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s that impressive.
Another bonus, “The Roses: An Inside Look,” looks at the cast and characters, and the British wry wit that runs throughout the story.
“Comedy Gold” looks at the cast and the screenplay.
There are bloopers as well.
This is NOT a show for kids. The Roses is rated R for language throughout, sexual content, and drug content.
It is now available on digital and will be available on Blu-ray, 4K UHD, and DVD beginning November 25, 2025.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. Francine is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Image supplied by Searchlight Pictures
Bonus features vary by product and retailer
