The Roses is a 2025 satirical black comedy film directed by Jay Roach and written by Tony McNamara. Based on the novel The War by Warren Adler, the Roses and serving as a remake of the 1989 film of the same name, this new version features a powerhouse cast including Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman, Andy Samberg, and Kate McKinnon.
The story explores the unraveling of a picture-perfect marriage. When the husband’s career takes a sudden downturn, deep-seated resentment and rivalry between the couple explode in outrageous and escalating ways. Set against a sharp, satirical tone, the film digs into the absurdity of power struggles within relationships.
The Roses Age Rating: Why Rated R?
The Roses is officially rated R by the MPAA for language throughout, sexual content, and drug content. Below is a detailed, spoiler-free breakdown of the film’s content to help parents decide whether it’s appropriate for younger viewers:
Violence & Peril
There is no graphic violence or physical fights, but the emotional warfare between the couple is intense and sometimes disturbing. Their passive-aggressive behavior escalates into verbal assaults, property destruction, and extreme pettiness. The satire can come across as mean-spirited in moments.
Language
Strong language is used consistently throughout the film, including frequent use of the F-word and other profanities. The dialogue reflects the bitterness and frustration between characters.
Sexual Content
The film includes suggestive scenes and adult conversations around intimacy, though there is no explicit nudity. Some situations rely on innuendo or awkward, uncomfortable humor related to sex.
Drug Content
There are scenes involving alcohol and drug use (mainly prescription pills and marijuana). These are mostly played for dark humor but still present clear adult content.
Is The Roses Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable: The film’s mature themes, language, and adult humor are inappropriate for children and pre-teens. There’s little here that would appeal to a younger viewer.
Ages 13–17: Not recommended for most teens: Even older teens may find the film’s themes too mature. The tone is dark, sarcastic, and centered on adult relationship dynamics and emotional dysfunction. While some mature teens might appreciate the satire, parental guidance is strongly advised.
The Roses is clearly intended for adults and fans of edgy, satirical comedy. Its humor, though clever, is built on adult conflicts that teens may not fully understand or enjoy.
What Parents Can Do
Watch It First: Preview the film before deciding if it’s right for an older teen.
Talk About Satire: If your teen watches it, explain that the film exaggerates toxic relationship behavior for comedic effect.
Set Expectations: Make sure they understand the film isn’t a model for real relationships—it’s a dark, fictional exaggeration.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Roses?
A: The film is rated R for language throughout, sexual content, and drug content.
Q: Is The Roses appropriate for teenagers?
A: No. Due to strong language, sexual references, and mature themes, it is best suited for adults.
Q: Does The Roses contain nudity or graphic sex scenes?
A: No. While there is sexual content, it is suggestive rather than graphic.
Q: Is the film violent?
A: Not in a traditional sense. There’s emotional conflict and destruction of property, but no physical violence or gore.
Q: When is The Roses coming out?
A: It will be released in U.S. theaters on August 29, 2025. The Roses – Searchlight Pictures