“The War Of The Roses” came out in 1989 and here are excerpts from my review (with the names changed): “It’s about love gone sour in a very vicious way. Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch start out happily, but after years their marriage deteriorates. Their battle becomes more and more unpleasant while remaining wickedly funny to the bitter end.” All of this applies to this new version. As always, Colman is a delight, with a cheery smile that’s heartbreaking when it turns sour. Cumberbatch is the more reserved character, but he still manages to merge the comedy with the drama. Supporting couple Kate McKinnon and Andy Samberg provide additional comic fun. The script is smart and incisive, while Jay Roach’s direction mines every hint of humor, while keeping the love intact (the original was helmed by Danny Devito). The final line from that earlier review still works: “It’s a deliciously dark story of love and hate.” And the final scene of this version is even more tasty! 
(4.5 / 5)
