Photo credits: Netflix
Wes Anderson’s “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” (2023) tells you a story in a way you have probably never experienced before. Wearing its Roald Dahl foundation on its sleeve, Anderson’s characters narrate the film’s events to you as if they are reading them right off the page. While this unusual method of storytelling, in description only, may seem off-putting, this bold creative choice blends seamlessly with Anderson’s signature avant-garde charm. Released on Netflix last week, this new short film from the auteur-director is a treat for everyone.
To begin the film, Ralph Fiennes showcases his charismatic portrayal of Roald Dahl, the author whose story the film is based upon. Being introduced into Henry Sugar’s world by the man who penned the tale is an abundantly interesting framing mechanism that is played on excellently. As we leave Dahl’s cozy cottage to start the story, one of the film’s most endearing and creative aspects makes itself evident. Scene changes and effects are treated like they would be in a theater production, rather than using cuts or computer graphics. In between scenes, you will see stagehands manually rolling out the background and props. Beautifully decorated sets give way to each other in this very human manner, adding a lovely flow to the story. Costume changes are treated similarly, and with an appropriate touch of humor to the whole fiasco. As per usual, Anderson plays with color masterfully here. Dulled yellows and brilliant reds dance with subdued greens and blues, making this film an autumnal treat. Cinematography is expectedly excellent in the film as well, with Anderson using his signature shot compositions to full effect. Wide shots, close-ups and carefully ratioed frames all make the short a technical joy to watch.
Benedict Cumberbatch portrays the titular character, and his cadence is so on-brand for a Wes Anderson production, it’s a wonder this is his first time working under the director. Henry Sugar is a lonesome, wealthy middle-aged man who Dahl tells us is always looking for more ways to make money. Soon after he discovers an old copybook in the library of a friend, you may begin to realize that the film is kind of a story, within a story, within a story, within a story. It would be a disservice to the pure craftiness at play here to go into excruciating detail about the film’s structure, but suffice to say that it is a fun and whimsical concept that only a director like Anderson could pull off. As the audience is taken layer by layer through this tale, it is successful as a film in a multitude of ways. Anderson’s detractors often cite that he prioritizes style over substance. While I heartily disagree with this take, I did find his film from earlier this year, “Asteroid City” (2023), to be noticeably a bit empty in regards to the deep character work and diligent thematic writing that Anderson is capable of. Watch almost any movie of his and you’ll be struck with just how real and complex those characters feel.
For me, this newest short is very much a return to form for Anderson. Henry Sugar goes through an easily-observable yet engaging-to-watch character arc that has a lot to say for those who like to look a little deeper. A central theme that I thought was well-executed was that of wealth and the effects it has on people. In this film, I believe Anderson is attempting to convey that money does not necessarily change people. Rather, our outlooks on life dictate what we will do with the resources we have at our disposal. As it plays out in the film, this is a very comforting development to watch in the life of Henry Sugar. In his attempt to learn a cheap gambling trick, he accidentally learned to be diligent, empathetic and self-aware. To commit yourself wholly to something, no matter what it may be, is to rid yourself of the superfluous desires of wealth and status. With the money he collects from his gambling trick, Henry Sugar travels the world, establishing well-funded hospitals and orphanages. A man who was once directionless and cared only about how full his pockets were ended up leaving the world a much better place than he had found it. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most uplifting films you’ll watch this year.
“The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” was the first and longest Anderson film to hit Netflix last week. There are now three more shorts released on the platform, all based on Roald Dahl stories and adapted for the screen by Anderson. With the air outside carrying a chill lately, my recommendation would be to bundle up, get comfy and watch one of the greatest directors of our generation at work. It’s not often you get to watch an auteur firing on all cylinders from the coziness of your own home.
Carlo Constantine is a second-year political science major.
Casting: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt16968450/fullcredits?ref_=tt_cl_sm