Netflix viewers recommend watching ‘incredible’ new Roald Dahl adaptation with subtitles

If you grew up in the UK, then you were probably obsessed with Roald Dahl at some point.

Although our school days might be long behind us now, it’s time to relive your childhood as Netflix has released The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar - a new adaptation of the author’s work.

And while viewers can’t stop raving about the ‘incredible’ short film, many are recommending that you leave the subtitles on for a very important reason.

Adapted by legendary director Wes Anderson, the film has been released along with three other shorts to celebrate Dahl’s extraordinary life.

Dropping on Netflix at the end of last month, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison are all based on the author's classic short stories.

Clocking in at just 17 minutes a piece, these easily digestible films have an all-star cast including Richard Ayoade, Ben Kingsley, Dev Patel, Rupert Friend, Ralph Fiennes and Benedict Cumberbatch.

However, binge-watchers are in for an extra special treat with the final film, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, which has a jam-packed run time (39 minutes to be exact).

Netflix

If you are unfamiliar with the classic tale, it centres around the wealthy Henry Sugar (Benedict Cumberbatch) who grows up in the lap of luxury.

Not satisfied with his fortune, however, he seeks help from guru Imdad Khan (Ben Kingsley) and learns how to meditate over a number of years.

Rather than finding spiritual sucker though, Sugar uses the practice to help him cheat while gambling - only to realise that money no longer has any value for him.

Though he and the cast give an ‘incredible’ performance, the speedy and side-splitting dry delivery has found some viewers recommending that you turn on the subtitles in order to fully appreciate it.

Taking to X (formally Twitter), fans have been gushing about the film and it’s impressive wordplay.

Netflix

One tweet read: “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar is thus far incredible. I recommend watching with subtitles on because the way they use words to tell the story is beautifully done.”

Another agreed, writing: “Quite enjoyed Wes Anderson’s The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, and was especially glad I always keep subtitles on when streaming something.”

Someone else said that reading the subtitles showed how 'beautifully done' the story was told, adding: "It somehow feels like a great read."

And another said that the 'fast-paced' narration worked in it's favour, making sure you 'couldn't look away even for a second'.

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar is available to stream on Netflix now.