The Roses is in cinemas on September 4.~|~|pixOZoJsYf
In a bold move that redefines the narrative of marital relationships, screenwriter Tony McNamara has brought together actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman for the film The Roses. Inspired by the 1989 film The War of the Roses, this fresh story examines the complexities of marriage, while maintaining McNamara’s signature blend of sharp dialogue and deep emotional resonance.
Cumberbatch and Colman sought out McNamara after their long-standing friendship. Cumberbatch praised McNamara’s exceptional ability to navigate complex tones, stating, “He’s quite extraordinary in how he shifts tone, and is able to hold very complex tones in one beat.” Their collaborative vision led to a screenplay that balances humor and emotional depth, setting the stage for a compelling exploration of relationships.
The film features Cumberbatch as Theo, a successful architect, and Colman as Ivy, a restauranteur, both of whom relocated to the United States years earlier. The script explores the strains of ambition and societal expectations on their marriage. McNamara explained his desire to delve into “a contemporary marriage and the pressures of two ambitious partners in a society that says you have to do something special with your life.”
In developing the plot, McNamara emphasized the importance of showing both the highs and lows of the couple’s relationship. As the narrative unfolds, audiences witness their initial happiness juxtaposed against the bitterness that arises over time. “Ideally for me, sometimes he’s right and sometimes she’s right,” McNamara noted. “You were supposed to feel neither was perfect and neither was right.”
The ensemble cast includes notable actors such as Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Zoe Chao, and Allison Janney. The lively performances by this talented group add depth to the film’s portrayal of friendship and the intricate dynamics within relationships.
After McNamara was secured as both the writer and producer, director Jay Roach joined the project. Roach’s vision allowed for a more profound exploration of Ivy and Theo’s earlier days, enhancing the emotional stakes of their eventual estrangement. The film’s humor shines through even in darker moments, as depicted in a dinner party scene where Ivy quips about the complexities of their relationship.
McNamara’s experiences as a waiter in Melbourne, where he observed couples interacting, significantly informed his writing. He shared a striking memory of a couple’s silence that was punctured by one partner’s painful declaration of regret. Such real-life encounters helped shape the authentic dialogue and relationships portrayed in The Roses.
Despite the film’s focus on conflict, it remains rooted in the enduring nature of love. McNamara explained that he wanted to convey the notion that the couple is still trying to connect, even amidst chaos. “It was more important they both kept trying,” he remarked, highlighting the relatable struggle within long-term relationships.
Cumberbatch also reflected on the lessons embedded in the narrative. He warned against the dangers of attempting to change a partner, stating, “It’s a huge mistake in human behaviour to find the thing that you found attractive, now unattractive just because you’ve grown bored.” His insights into human nature resonate throughout the film, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
McNamara has established himself as a prominent figure in the film industry, having received acclaim for works such as The Favourite and Poor Things. His unique voice has garnered attention, and his ability to blend humor with incisive observations makes him a sought-after collaborator.
As Zoe Chao aptly summarized, “Tony McNamara has such a specific, delicious voice.” With The Roses, McNamara continues to explore the intricacies of human relationships, ensuring that audiences not only laugh but also reflect on their own experiences.
