The Magical Concoction: Demystifying Roald Dahl & Wes Anderson's Poison

Wes Anderson has teamed up with Netflix to produce four short films based on the beloved works of Roald Dahl, the renowned children's author. Today, we are here to discuss the conclusion of one of these films, titled Poison.

After the recent release of Asteroid City, Wes Anderson has returned to our Netflix screens once again.

In fact, he has recently presented us with four new films, although they are short, that are inspired by the tales of Roald Dahl. It has been a while since he last worked on Dahl's stories, which was in his stop-motion movie Fantastic Mr Fox released in 2009. These short films, featuring the talented actors Richard Ayoade, Ralph Fiennes, Rupert Friend, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Dev Patel in various roles, have been unveiled during a four-day event. The final installment, titled Poison, has just been released.

The movie is an adaptation of Roald Dahl's short story with the same title. But what exactly takes place in Poison? Continue reading and we will provide a detailed explanation. However, please be aware that spoilers will be given.

What happens in Poison?

Originally written by Roald Dahl as a short story, Poison was published in Collier's in June 1950. It later gained even more recognition when it was adapted into an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents in 1958.

This iteration of Wes Anderson's film adopts his signature quirky visuals and rapid editing. However, amidst the backdrop of India under British rule, the narrative unfolds with gripping intensity. The plot revolves around Harry Pope, a man immobilized by a venomous snake, and his loyal friend and doctor, Timber Woods, who strive to save him. The snake in question is a krait, a species notoriously potent according to Roald Dahl, capable of inducing black blood upon biting its victims.

Woods contacts the local doctor, Dr. Ganderbai, seeking assistance. As a result, the doctor prepares anti-venom and treats the bed with chloroform, while also pressuring Harry to remain immobile throughout the process. It is worth mentioning that Woods, a soldier with a scar on his head, experiences a flashback related to a previous medical encounter, indicating that he has likely been injured in a previous conflict.

However, when Woods and the doctor attempt to remove the snake, they discover that it is nowhere to be found. It is uncertain whether the snake has slithered away or if Harry simply imagined its presence, as it remains unseen.

Dr. Ganderbai questions if Harry imagined the snake, but despite his innocent intention, Harry, being British, perceives the question as offensive and unleashes a racist verbal attack on the Indian doctor. This unexpected twist in the story sheds light on the grim reality of a British-controlled India.

In a slightly altered conclusion compared to the original narrative, Ganderbai departs from Harry's residence and Woods follows him, offering apologies for Harry's aggressive behavior. In the original version, Ganderbai attributes Harry's conduct to the effects of chloroform. However, in the movie adaptation, it is evident that Ganderbai is deeply wounded by Harry's hurtful words. He coldly informs Woods that he cannot accept the apology and drives away.

Given that the snake in this story is venomous and not poisonous, it becomes apparent that the title "Poison" refers to something else entirely.

For a comprehensive analysis of The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, as well as our other Netflix hubs, please feel free to visit the following link: [Insert link here]

Firefly Lane Season 3 renewal status is awaited. Beef Season 2 is in the pipeline. Monster Season 2 is coming soon. The possibility of Ginny and Georgia Season 3 remains uncertain. All the Light We Cannot See is a captivating read. Stranger Things Season 5 is highly anticipated. Florida Man Season 2 is in development. Obsession Season 2 is in progress. The Sandman Season 2 is in the works. The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 is yet to be confirmed. Heartstopper Season 3 is eagerly awaited. Virgin River Season 6 is on the horizon. Sweet Magnolias Season 4 renewal is yet to be determined.