Matilda

Matilda is a magical fantasy film. Directed by Danny DeVito the film was based on the novel of the same name by the celebrated children’s author Roald Dahl. DeVito also stars and narrates the film along with Rhea Perlman, his real life wife, and the brilliant Mara Wilson as the title role.

The film was a reasonable box office hit and has become a firm favourite with children of all ages. Many viewers found DeVito’s adaptation of the book very well done and some even found it better set in a more modern time. The character of Matilda is every little girl’s dream; who would not want to have a superpower to destroy those who have done you wrong? Although Matilda sometimes comes across as a little judgemental in the film she has had some hardships in her short life and so is childishly lashing out.

The mean and seemingly uncaring parents are brilliantly portrayed by DeVito and Perlman as well as the overly sweet Miss Honey played by Embeth Davidtz.

Matilda is a special young girl, her parents do not care about her and so she loses herself in books and learning. When she goes to school she falls foul of the evil headmistress but befriends her teacher and they soon hatch a plan to get revenge on their families.

Cinema release 1995

Certificate PG

Available on DVD