Searchlight Pictures is set to begin production later this month on a remake of the 1989 classic 20th Century Studios film, “The War Of The Roses”, in which life seems easy for picture-perfect couple Theo and Ivy, with successful careers, great kids, and an enviable sex life. But underneath the façade of the perfect family is a tinderbox of competition and resentment that’s ignited when Theo’s professional dreams come crashing down.

This new version will star Benedict Cumberbatch, who has previously starred in “Doctor Strange”, “Sherlock” and “The Power of the Dog”. It will also star Olivia Colman, who has previously starred in “The Crown”, “The Favourite” and “Secret Invasion”. Along with “Doctor Who” actor Ncuti Gatwa, with Sunita Mani, Zoë Chao, Jamie Demetriou and Belinda Bromilow.

Deadline has revealed that Kate McKinnon and Andy Samberg have joined the cast. Kate has previously starred in “Barbie” and “The Spy Who Dumped Me”. Andy has previously starred in “Palm Springs” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”.

The upcoming film, called “The Roses,” will be directed and executive produced by Jay Roach, who has previously worked on “Austin Powers”, “Bombshell”, “Borat” and “Meet The Fockers”.

Jay Roach revealed in a statement regarding the project:

“When Searchlight sent me Tony McNamara’s script, I was skeptical, because I loved the original film. But as a fan of Tony’s darkly hilarious writing, and with Olivia and Benedict attached, I should have known it would go a new and wonderful direction. Adding in this phenomenal dream cast will make this relatable love-story/divorce story a wild cautionary tale.”

Matthew Greenfield, President of Searchlight Pictures, added:

“We feel so fortunate to be working with this remarkable, wonderfully hilarious group of actors. Jay has truly assembled an astounding cast to bring a modernistic impression and contemporary relevance to this reimagining.”

Tony McNamara has written the script, which is based on Warren Adler’s novel. Tony has previously worked on “Poor Things”, “The Great”, and “Cruella”.

“The Roses” will be produced by Benedict Cumberbatch’s SunnyMarch banner, along with Leah Clarke and Adam Ackland. Olivia Colman’s South of the River banner, with partners Ed Sinclair and Tom Carver, will also produce the movie.

Michelle Graham will also produce the film, and Jonathan R. Adler and Michael Adler, from Adler Entertainment Trust, will executive produce. Searchlight VP Production Richard Ruiz and Director of Development & Production Pete Spencer are overseeing the project.

No other details, such as when it’s expected to be filmed or released, have been announced.  As with most Searchlight Pictures films, expect to see this one released in cinemas before eventually being released on Hulu and Hulu On Disney+ in the United States and on Disney+ around the world.

Are you excited about a “War Of The Roses” remake?  Let me know on social media!

Roger Palmer

Roger has been a Disney fan since he was a kid and this interest has grown over the years. He has visited Disney Parks around the globe and has a vast collection of Disney movies and collectibles. He is the owner of What's On Disney Plus & DisKingdom. Email: Roger@WhatsOnDisneyPlus.com Twitter: Twitter.com/RogPalmerUK Facebook: Facebook.com/rogpalmeruk

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