In a candid and humorous exchange, actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman discuss the complexities of marriage, love, and their latest film, The Roses. The conversation, filled with wit and warmth, offers a glimpse into the dynamic between the two stars, who have been friends for years.
At the heart of their discussion is The Roses, a film adaptation of Warren Adler’s 1981 novel, The War of the Roses. In this 2025 version, the story shifts to California, where Ivy (Colman) and Theo (Cumberbatch) navigate the challenges of marriage amidst career successes and failures. The film explores themes of ambition, gender roles, and the pressures of modern relationships.
Exploring the Dynamics of Marriage
During their conversation, Cumberbatch and Colman reflect on the nature of love and marriage. Colman, known for her cheerful demeanor, remarks, “I love love. I like to romanticize love. I think it’s ace.” Cumberbatch, on the other hand, delves deeper, discussing the classical romantic ideals that often clash with the realities of married life. “Classicism has given us this sort of romantic ideal of love, which is impossible to live up to,” he notes.
The actors also touch on the practicalities of marriage, with Colman humorously suggesting that a nanny could solve many of the couple’s problems in the film. “I mean, it could have all been solved with a nanny,” she quips, highlighting the film’s exploration of domestic roles and responsibilities.
The Roses: A Modern Take on a Classic Tale
The Roses, directed by Jay Roach, presents a contemporary twist on the original story, focusing on the couple’s struggle to balance personal ambitions with family life. Screenwriter Tony McNamara, known for his work on The Favourite, emphasizes the impact of capitalism on modern relationships. “Both partners have to work. It’s tougher today because of the idea you have to get fulfilment from your career and be special,” he explains.
This theme resonates with both Cumberbatch and Colman, who acknowledge the challenges of maintaining a marriage in the public eye. Despite their fame, both actors emphasize the importance of grounding their relationships in reality. “Have fun with it and then just go home,” Colman advises, underscoring the need to balance public and private life.
Reflections on Love and Loneliness
The film also contrasts the experiences of Ivy and Theo with those of their American friends, played by a talented ensemble cast including Kate McKinnon and Jamie Demetriou. The characters’ interactions highlight cultural differences in expressing love and navigating relationships.
For younger actors like Ncuti Gatwa and Sunita Mani, the film’s themes resonate with their own views on love and individuality. “There’s this narrative on socials, a line I see all the time: ‘I’m the prize!’” Gatwa observes, reflecting on the pressures of modern dating culture.
“In America, individuality is such a currency. It becomes commodified so quickly.” — Sunita Mani
Lessons from the Past and Future
While The Roses offers a modern perspective on marriage, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of communication. As Roach notes, “I really am fascinated by what makes a relationship work or what dooms it.”
Despite the film’s exploration of complex themes, Cumberbatch and Colman’s real-life friendship and humor shine through. Their playful banter and mutual respect provide a refreshing counterpoint to the film’s more serious moments, reminding audiences of the enduring power of love and friendship.
As the actors continue to navigate their successful careers and personal lives, their insights offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to balance the demands of modern relationships. Whether through humor, honesty, or a shared cup of matcha, Cumberbatch and Colman demonstrate that love, in all its forms, remains a powerful force.
