Poison (2023) Movie Review and Free Download

Poison is the fourth and final short film directed by Wes Anderson for Netflix, based on one of Roald Dahl’s lesser-known stories. It stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Harry Pope, a man who wakes up with the fear that a deadly snake is lying on his stomach under a book. He calls his friend Timber Woods (Dev Patel), who in turn calls Dr. Ganderbai (Ben Kingsley), a local physician who tries to help Harry get rid of the snake without getting bitten. The film is a tense and suspenseful thriller, with a dark twist at the end that reveals the true nature of the poison in the title.

The film is a showcase of Wes Anderson’s signature style, with quirky camera movements, colorful sets, and witty dialogue. The performances are excellent, especially Cumberbatch, who conveys Harry’s panic and paranoia with minimal movement and expression. Kingsley and Patel also deliver solid support, adding some humor and humanity to the situation. The film also features Ralph Fiennes as Roald Dahl himself, introducing the story and providing some context.

The film is not only an entertaining adaptation of Dahl’s story, but also a commentary on racism and prejudice. The film explores how fear can bring out the worst in people, and how some people harbor venomous hatred towards others based on their skin color or ethnicity. The film does not shy away from exposing the ugliness of Harry’s character, and how his ingratitude and bigotry towards Dr. Ganderbai contrast with the doctor’s kindness and professionalism. The film also raises questions about whether there was ever a snake under the book, or if it was all in Harry’s imagination.

Poison is a short but powerful film that delivers a punch in its 15 minutes of runtime. It is a well-crafted and well-acted film that blends comedy and horror, while also making a social statement. It is a fitting finale to Wes Anderson’s collection of Roald Dahl’s stories, and a must-watch for fans of both artists.