Matilda - A Movie Review

Reading is one of the greatest pastimes the world has to offer. Read.

Matilda is a 1996 film based on the novel written by Roald Dahl. Matilda has an extraordinary mind but she is unappreciated by her neglectful parents. Going to school, Matilda meets some of the greatest people, including her teacher who broadens her world. She also discovers a special ability.

When I was in the second grade, one of my classmates actually asked me if I was the actress who played Matilda! Matilda is one of my favorite stories by Roald Dahl. As someone who loves to read, I instantly connected with Matilda as a kid. Matilda is a classic embodying the importance of reading, being yourself, and finding strength.

Matilda’s charisma is something to admire. Don’t ever let anyone’s harsh words get in your way. Matilda conquered bravery over the domineering adults who didn’t appreciate her for who she was. I thank Matilda for my love to read. Watching Matilda grow and discover what she can do at an impossibly young age as an inspiration to anyone.

I have always been impressed with Mara Wilson’s work, most notably when she was a child actress. Wilson is a natural. She stands out as a leader to all young children. Sadly, Wilson’s mother died amidst the filming. I hold my head high for Wilson’s own bravery, moving forward, and completing the film.

Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman successfully turned themselves into the despicable, unlikeable, and unpleasant parents of Matilda. Their performances are what the sell the movie. I love movies with DeVito. He does a great job of stepping out of his normal sarcastic personality to be this neglectful parent. What makes Matilda a great movie is that nobody holds back.

Don’t ever get in the way of Miss Trunchbull’s or you’ll get locked inside the chokie or eat an entire chocolate cake! Pam Ferris most definitely had the time of her life as the grisly Miss Trunchbull. At times Ferris stayed in character when the director yelled cut just to get a genuinely scared reaction from cast members. It worked.

One of the best messages that Matilda supplies are that teachers will always be here to support you. Miss Honey (Embeth Davidtz) is a compassionate teacher who has a dark past. As described in the film, we cannot let our pasts overpower us. It’s all about how we look at the world. Matilda and Miss Honey’s relationship is so tender, and I admire their bond.

The ensemble of Matilda is great. I have to applaud the entire kid ensemble for their outstanding work. Everyone was present at all times, reacting to the drama unfold.

Danny DeVito’s close attention to his direction on Matilda is one of my favorite aspects to look back on. He successfully brought out a film that people continue to sit down and watch on their TV. He listened to all ideas and made sure that everyone’s voice was heard. He didn’t hold back on the serious elements of the story. Everything is pure genuine about this movie.

The special effects are very impressive. My favorite scene of all is at the end of the movie when a piece of chalk, hovering in the air, writes a message. You have to look into behind the scenes to see how they did this.

Matilda will always be one of my favorite films. From when I watch it as a little girl, I still remember how terrified I was when Matilda and Miss Honey were inside Miss Trunchbull’s house. Matilda is an extraordinary movie with messages to be proud, keep reading, and never back down.