Danny DeVito is frequently underestimated as a director of comedy. While he is renowned for his performances in movies and television, such as “Taxi” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” he has also helmed significant films like “Matilda,” “Throw Momma from the Train,” “Death to Smoochy,” and “The War of the Roses.” Even when considering a new take on “The War of the Roses,” it’s difficult to overlook DeVito’s influence on the comedy genre.

On the surface, “The Roses” appears to have potential. Based on the same Warren Adler novel as DeVito’s 1989 adaptation, the script is penned by Tony McNamara, recognized for “The Favourite” and “Poor Things.” The film brings McNamara back together with Olivia Colman, alongside Benedict Cumberbatch. The supporting ensemble features Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Allison Janney, Sunita Mani, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Demetriou, and Zoë Chao, indicating a comedy rich in humor.

Nonetheless, the film fails to deliver laughs, with director Jay Roach being a key factor. “The Roses” is devoid of the wit and intensity required. DeVito’s take served as an allegory against divorce, with DeVito himself providing narration. McNamara’s rendition employs a voiceover from the Roses, Ivy (Colman) and Theo (Cumberbatch), presenting a lighter mood. The storyline remains largely unchanged: Theo, who was once the primary provider, confronts career obstacles as his wife’s career thrives, engendering resentment and a bitter divorce over their ideal home.

In this iteration, Theo is an architect who constructed their dream home funded by his wife’s restaurant earnings. The following pranks escalate perilously, yet numerous jokes miss the mark. Roach’s direction lacks the sharpness demanded for “The Roses.” Although Cumberbatch and Colman exhibit chemistry, Roach’s approach is too conventional, lacking the dark, gothic essence of DeVito’s work. The climax picks up the comedic pace, but it feels too tardy.

Kate McKinnon is poorly cast, embodying a character that lacks depth. Other comedic opportunities are squandered, aside from a notable scene featuring Allison Janney and Samberg. Cumberbatch invests in his role, but Colman excels in moments of dark humor. Roach appears reluctant to depict genuinely despicable characters, diluting the incisive comedy present in DeVito’s original. “The Roses” falls short of the vibrant, dark humor anticipated from a narrative about a toxic couple competing to eliminate each other over a house. It significantly underwhelms compared to the 1989 version. “The Roses” is set to premiere in theaters on Aug. 28.