The Roses

This is a modern remake of a 1989 film called The War of the Roses, which itself was based on a book of that name by Warren Adler that was published in 1981.

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The story is a warning shot over the bow of long-term marriages. It shows us what can happen when people stop seeing each other, stop encouraging and assisting in the fulfillment of each other’s goals and desires. We watch a couple go from blissfully happy to terrifyingly violent.

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It would be too simplistic to say “His jealousy was the problem” or “Her guilt made her unable to be grateful” or whatever, as that would be missing the point. This is about two people trying to make their relationship work and then when they can’t, breaking up without a willingness to compromise on the division of the spoils of their wealth.

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It’s labeled a black comedy, but aside from a couple of scenes, it’s not funny at all. It’s tense, heart-breaking, frustrating, slightly upsetting. The viewer wonders why they can’t just talk things out.

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The casting is excellent. Although you wouldn’t normally imagine Olivia Coleman and Benedict Cumberbatch together, they make a believable couple.

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Also well-cast is Kat McKinnon. How is that she always plays the weirdo? Maybe because she is exceptional at it. McKinnon's few scenes are the best parts of this movie.

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