“‘The Roses’ Premieres in U.S. Theaters; Costume Designer Spotlights Collaborative Process”

Los Angeles, August 29, 2025 - Searchlight Pictures’ satirical black comedy The Roses officially opened in U.S. cinemas today, reimagining the 1989 dark comedy The War of the Roses with British stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman as a marriage teetering on the brink of mutual destruction.

In conjunction with the release, costume designer P.C. Williams spoke to Forbes about the film’s wardrobe, praising director Jay Roach’s inclusive approach. Williams recalled a moment when Roach invited all department heads to weigh in on an upcoming scene, saying, “He recognizes that collaboration enhances our best qualities,” and emphasized how the supportive set environment elevated the creative process.

The film, penned by Tony McNamara and set against the dramatic backdrop of Northern California’s coastline, explores the power dynamics of a marriage strained by professional highs and lows. Theo (Cumberbatch), a once-celebrated architect, finds his career unraveling after a storm damages his signature maritime museum, while Ivy (Colman) ascends to culinary stardom with her crab cake restaurant concept. Their escalating rivalry culminates in the trademark vicious humor and physical confrontations fans of the original will recognize.

Opening Day Highlights

  • Release: Wide theatrical release across the United States on August 29, 2025.
  • Rating & Runtime: Rated R for language and sexual content; running time of 105 minutes.
  • Creative Team: Directed by Jay Roach; screenplay by Tony McNamara; produced by Roach, Michelle Graham, Ed Sinclair, Tom Carver, Adam Ackland, and Leah Clarke.
  • Supporting Cast: Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Allison Janney, Ncuti Gatwa, Belinda Bromilow, Sunita Mani, Jamie Demetriou, and Zoë Chao.

Early critical response has been mixed, with praise directed at the leads’ chemistry and sharp repartee, though some reviewers note a tonal shift in the final act. Audiences will get the first box office indicators this weekend, coinciding with the Labor Day holiday frame.