The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar Review: A Confection

Roald Dahl's "The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar" is a delightful and whimsical film that explores the power of storytelling. With a talented ensemble cast and Wes Anderson's unique style, this 37-minute movie is a must-watch.

Roald Dahl's The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, brought to life by director Wes Anderson, introduces us to the protagonist, Henry Sugar, portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch. This rich and idle man's life takes an extraordinary turn when he stumbles upon a book written by a doctor, played by Dev Patel. Within the pages of this book, he discovers an incredible tale about a man, portrayed by Ben Kingsley, who possesses the extraordinary ability to "see without his eyes." As the narrative unfolds, diving deeper into layers upon layers of storytelling, Anderson skillfully explores the essence of storytelling itself, in a way only he can.

Despite its short duration of only 37 minutes, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar is a meticulously crafted experience. Anderson's expertise as a filmmaker ensures that the pacing is deliberate, utilizing long takes and clever edits to make the film feel much shorter than it actually is. In the hands of another director, this story could have easily become a convoluted mess, but Anderson's skill shines through, effortlessly guiding the audience through the narrative.

Anderson's current fascination with deliberate artifice is evident in this film, as he presents multiple layers of reality, reminiscent of his previous work in Asteroid City. However, unlike in that film where the behind-the-scenes details added depth, in Henry Sugar, the entire experience is akin to a theatrical performance. The deliberate staging, with sets and props constantly moving on and off screen, creates a sense of constant motion and excitement. The credits even acknowledge the numerous stagehands involved, emphasizing the theatrical nature of the film.

The ensemble cast, who not only portray their primary characters but also take on additional roles, remains committed to the narrative. They directly narrate the story to the camera, maintaining a relentless pace. Anderson stays true to Dahl's original prose, even including the "he said"s, which could have been distracting if the film were any longer. However, within the film's concise runtime, the dialogue feels like a thrilling roller coaster ride, propelling the plot forward.

The group of talented actors seamlessly pass the baton to each other with each scene transition. While they all synchronize their performances with Anderson's signature rhythm, each brings a unique touch to their character. Benedict Cumberbatch, as Henry Sugar, showcases his ability to infuse wry humor into his deadpan delivery. Dev Patel's wide-eyed wonder effectively conveys his character's awe and amazement.

In the year 2023, it is slightly disconcerting to witness race-bent casting, such as Richard Ayoade portraying a South Asian guru. However, within the fable-like atmosphere of the film, this choice feels less jarring and more in line with the fantastical elements of the story.

The beauty of this film lies in its existence itself. The power of brevity is evident, and it is gratifying to see streaming services like Netflix embrace the flexibility of their platform, allowing Anderson to explore and break the rules. The film exudes a sense of playfulness on multiple levels, capturing the exhilaration of pushing boundaries and the magic that can be achieved through stagecraft.

Would The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar still hold its charm if it were a minute longer? That question remains unanswered. However, at its current length, the film's approach works splendidly, serving as a reminder that a story's length does not diminish its impact. Especially when it is penned by a master storyteller like Dahl, whose words possess enduring wit and vibrancy. And it is artists like Anderson who continue to appreciate and bring his stories to life, ensuring their longevity for years to come.

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