The War of the Roses (1989) – When Love Turns Into a Battlefield

“The War of the Roses proves that the fiercest battles are waged behind closed doors.” 

The War of the Roses (1989) is a darkly comedic masterpiece that hilariously dissects the implosion of a seemingly perfect marriage. Directed by Danny DeVito, the film follows the story of Oliver and Barbara Rose, a wealthy couple whose once-passionate love story spirals into a bitter, vengeful war over possessions, pride, and ultimately, who gets to keep the house.

At the film’s start, Oliver (Michael Douglas) and Barbara (Kathleen Turner) appear to be living the American dream: a beautiful home, successful careers, and an affluent lifestyle. However, beneath the façade lies resentment and boredom. When Barbara decides she wants a divorce, Oliver insists on staying in the house—sparking a ruthless and escalating conflict where every chandelier, every antique, and even the family pets become weapons in their emotional and physical battles.

What makes The War of the Roses brilliant is its unapologetic dive into the ugly side of human nature. The film deftly balances slapstick comedy and scathing satire, showing how love can morph into a toxic battleground. DeVito, who also plays the couple’s lawyer and narrator, adds a sardonic layer, reminding the audience that passion and hatred are often two sides of the same coin.

The performances are stellar. Douglas and Turner—already an iconic onscreen duo after Romancing the Stone—deliver fiery chemistry, making every cruel insult and destructive act feel painfully real yet darkly hilarious. Their physical comedy, especially during the film’s escalating home destruction scenes, is both outrageous and oddly cathartic.

Even decades later, The War of the Roses remains a biting commentary on marriage, materialism, and pride. It’s a film that’s as funny as it is unsettling, a cautionary tale that love’s fiercest battles are often fought not in courtrooms—but in living rooms.