Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to see Benedict Cumberbatch’s latest release The Thing with Feathers. However, I did rewatch one of my favourite films of the year, The Roses, which has now premiered on Disney Plus here in the UK. As a huge fan of both Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange, Sherlock) and Olivia Colman (The Favourite, Paddington in Peru), you can imagine my excitement when this film was first announced. My anticipation only grew when I learned it would be an adaptation of Warren Adler’s novel The War of the Roses, (which had been adapted into a film in the past) featuring two of my favourite actors portraying a married couple in this “satirical” black comedy.
The Roses, directed by Jay Roach, who’s best known for his American comedic hits Meet the Parents and Austin Powers, brings two of Britain’s finest acting talents to the United States to tell the story of an idyllic relationship shaken apart by a sudden storm in their careers (quite literally).
Comedy has always been one of Olivia Colman’s natural strengths, as demonstrated by her early work in series such as Peep Show. It was therefore no surprise to see her excel in this role. Benedict Cumberbatch, however, is more commonly associated with the stubborn “know-it-all” archetype. Throughout much of his filmography, he plays serious, commanding figures who often lack sympathy. Even in his portrayal of Alan Turing in the historical biopic The Imitation Game (2014), which earned him an Academy Award nomination – this trait persists. Although Benedict Cumberbatch rarely appears in comedies, some of his past characters have revealed flickers of humour and often comes across as warm and good humoured in interviews and promotional appearances. While he still carries some of his stubbornness in this film, The Roses offers fans such as me, the pleasure of seeing him embrace a lighter, more cheerful side with a comedic setting.
The film also features a few surprise supporting performances from actors such as our current “Doctor”, Ncuti Gatwa, as well as Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon. Although, most of these actors given extensive screen time, as the narrative remains tightly focused on our beloved leads, Kate McKinnon nonetheless manages to steal every scene she appears in, making her brief presence particularly memorable.
The story unfolds as a “cat and mouse” battle between Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, keeping the film consistently engaging thanks to their impeccable comedic timing and undeniable chemistry. At just one hour and forty minutes, Tony McNamara’s screenplay holds out attention without prompting us to check the time (at least for most of it). In the final quarter of the film, the pacing does begin to slow due to the repetition of the style of scenes, but once again, Colman and Cumberbatch’s dynamic carries the narrative through its weaker moments.
So, does the film live up to the expectations audiences had beforehand? Absolutely! The Roses delivers precisely what its trailer and promotional material promised and it does not disappoint. It is the kind of film best enjoyed during a cost night in with your loved ones (which I definitely do minus the loved ones). The Roses is available to stream now on Disney+, whether you’re rewatching for the laughs or discovering it for the first time this Christmas season.
