The War of the Roses poster
The War of the Roses

Picking Nits

Revenge date; media silence; fatal fall; chandelier; neighbors; happy marriage; vehicle; dog breed

In the discussion (9)
Approx. transcript time · 01:24:14Read transcript
  • A revenge-date/sex scene for Barbara is wanted instead of framing scenes; possible divorce consequences and the existing Gavin attempt complicate it.
  • Keeping two deaths at a mansion out of newspapers seems impossible, particularly with a food critic already involved.
  • The drop height, delayed simultaneous deaths and surviving movement are questioned, while the ending’s dramatic perfection is defended.
  • The chandelier improbably supports both people before pulverizing; Oliver should release it before being pulled over.
  • Neighbors never intervene despite vehicular violence, repeated fires and boarded windows; self-absorption and bystander assumptions are offered as defenses.
  • One more happy-couple scene is desired to justify the long marriage.
  • The abrupt transition from passionate night to marriage lacks evidence of a happy life, though an unconsidered relationship may be the point.
  • Barbara’s oversized vehicle seems excessive for 1989 and modest catering earnings, but is defended as visual characterization of money and power.
  • Oliver’s dog should have been a dull white Labrador or unpleasant poodle rather than a personable golden retriever, prompting a bad-poodle anecdote.