Matilda

Cast: Mara Wilson, Danny Devito, Rhea Pearlman, Embeth Davidtz and Pam Ferris.

Director: Danny Devito

Release Date: 1996

Running Time: 1hr 38 minutes

Genre: Family

Rating: PG

Format: Netflix UK

Synopsis:

This is the story of a remarkable little girl, Matilda, a genius to her wonderful teacher, nothing but trouble to her parents. 

Based on the incredible children's story of the same name by Roald Dahl. Director and actor Danny Devito, brings the imaginative story to life! When I was at school, if it was a rainy day, we were allowed to sit in our school library and watch a film. I can't even remember how many times, I watched this. All I can say, is that it has become a firm favourite. As I've mentioned before in a few of my other reviews, it can be quite a challenge adapting a book into a movie. This, is honestly one of the best book adaptions out there! What's so excellent about it, is the fact that its not just entertaining, it's quite educational too. Unfortunately Matilda Wormwood is very misunderstood by her family, she is very different from their way of life. Matilda's mother is always off gambling whilst her father sells phoney cars to unwilling customers. Sadly, Matilda's parents don't see her for the remarkably intelligent girl that she is. Matilda finally starts school and her intelligence doesn't go unnoticed, her teacher Miss Honey, see's her for the beautiful human being that she is, so goes about helping her!

I cannot even tell you how incredible Pam Ferris's performance is as Miss Trunchbull. A truly brilliant British actress. Her performance as Miss Trunchbull is absolutely terrifying. I can remember having nightmares as a child, imagining that when I'd get to Secondary school, my head mistress would be just like her! Thankfully, I was wrong. Of course, not everyone at Matilda's school is horrible, her teacher Miss Honey, becomes quite a hero. Matilda soon forms an incredible friendship with her. Matilda, played by fantastic child actor Mara Wilson, delivers one of her best performances. For some, you may recognise her more from "Mrs Doubtfire" or "Miracle on 34th Street", her personality matches that of Matilda's beautifully. Danny Devito works amazingly as actor and director. Devito plays, Mr Wormwood a nasty man who cheats customers out of their money by selling cars. Is it just me or is Devito fantastic at playing the grumpy stereotype? A very, very underrated character actor.

There's something very magical about this film, I can't quite place my finger on what it is. I think it all comes down to the fact that a lot of children can relate to it. There's a terrific scene involving chocolate cake, and let's face it, what child doesn't dream of having magic powers? I can't even remember how many times I read the book as a child. Countless times. Devito found the perfect balance between making this a film and keeping the book alive at the same time. The storyline is excellent, it's perfectly suitable for children of all ages. Despite Pam Ferris's character Miss Trunchbull being absolutely horrible, there isn't anything too frightening for very young children. You know, it's only as an adult that I have really come to appreciate how ridiculously terrifying she actually is.

The score is amazing, it speaks for itself, but it really could tell the story all on it's own. It's incredible, what a good soundtrack can do for a movie! It's remarkable, how much it can bring a story to life! I love how educational it is, it essentially teaches children what will happen if they go through their life being unkind to others. It also shows what happens to those, that are kind. Not to mention, it may seriously encourage your children to read, if they believe they might end up with super powers, it's good enough right? For a film that is 19 years old, it doesn't look a day old. The cinematography is nice, it's simple, but it works. The special effects do look a little bit dated in places, but come on, it's a children's movie, it's not to be taken too seriously. It actually adds humour, to an already fantastic storyline.

This is by far one of the best films of the 90's, it's educational, fun and entertaining!

5/5 stars