For anyone who didn’t grow up reading Roald Dahl before bed, Matilda tells the story of a free-spirited genius titular Matilda Wormwood (Alisha Weir), whose parents are cruel and can’t understand their bookish daughter’s disdain for their TV-oriented lifestyle. When they reluctantly send her to school, Matilda finds herself confronted with a new set of problems, namely Miss Trunchbull (Emma Thompson); the terrifying headmistress of Crunchem Hall Primary School. It is here Matilda also meets Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch), her sweet-natured teacher. It is the influence of both their love and hatred that lead Matilda to develop her telekinetic powers and free the school from the tyranny of Trunchbull.
The young actress brings the notorious character to life with talent and the playful tone that defines Dahls’ novel
This movie is led by the young Alisha Weir’s performance as Matilda. The young actress brings the notorious character to life with talent and the playful tone that defines Dahls’ novel. Her mischievous and daring attitude is portrayed excellently, and Weir is a perfect casting for such a role. She is joined by Emma Thompson, playing Miss Trunchbull. Thompsons portrayal of the appalling headmistress was key to this movie. With a stature the size of a city office block and the temper of a lion, Thompson puts on a show-stopping performance as she brings the fearful character to life.
I had concerns for this movie as it can often be difficult to translate a stage musical to the big screen; you risk losing the grandness of such a production. However, Warchus’ extravagant and colourful sets and characters enabled you to lose yourself in the film. I especially enjoyed the plot of the escapologist. The way in which it is narrated by Weir and shown to the audience had me absorbed in each moment and held the same tension as it does in the West End.
I also appreciated the care and thought put into casting the ensemble. Roles such as Hortensia (Meesha Garbutt) and Bruce Bogtrotter (Charlie Dodson-Prior) brought the movie to life, giving it an extra sprinkling of magic and talent. The renowned song ‘Revolting Children’ gives the two a chance to perform side by side with choreography (Ellen Kane) that you can’t look away from.
Overall, I truly enjoyed the movie. I have wonderful memories of experiencing Matilda in the West End as a child, and now people all around the world can experience the whimsical, captivating story right in their own homes. This is definitely a movie to watch.
