Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman Film Toxic On-Set Scenes The Roses

Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman star as a warring couple in the new film The Roses, a modern re-imagining of the 1989 classic The War of the Roses, depicting a marriage breakdown filled with revenge and toxicity. During filming, Cumberbatch revealed they hit a 'speed bump' where the on-screen toxicity began to spill over into real life, prompting him to check in with Colman to ensure their off-screen friendship remained intact. Despite this moment, both actors maintained a close friendship, often sharing affectionate moments on set after intense scenes, with Colman emphasizing their awareness that the conflict was purely fictional. The film, directed by Jay Roach, updates the story to reflect contemporary dynamics, including both characters having careers and a diverse friend group, while retaining a distinctly British sensibility. Cumberbatch described the overall filming experience as fun, with the brief tension quickly resolved, highlighting the actors' professionalism and camaraderie. The Roses was released in cinemas in 2025, featuring a notable supporting cast including Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, and Ncuti Gatwa.