This quartet of short films from director Wes Anderson (‘Sugar’ clocks in at 41 minutes; the other three are a super-quick 17 each) is based on short stories by Roald Dahl, which Anderson himself adapted. Starring some combination of Benedict Cumberbatch, Rupert Friend, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, and Dev Patel (among others) the four films are a fun and oh-so-Wes collection, with the director’s trademark muted colors, wry narration, and deadpan delivery. Some work better than others (‘The Swan’ is particularly forgettable), but combined, they are a fine showcase of great short stories elegantly told.
4/5 stars