Robin Swicord

We thoroughly enjoyed this, despite not having any children with us. Mara Wilson is excellent as the unusually brilliant Matilda, and Pam Ferris makes an exaggeratedly terrible Miss Trunchbull. Other than being set in the United States rather than the UK, this adaptation sticks fairly well to the original story written by Roald Dahl. Inevitably there are some omissions and a few extra scenes which add visual interest and some tension, but which are in keeping with the Dahl style.

Rated PG, as there is a fair bit of tension and some exaggerated violence that's done for comedy, but which might worry a sensitive child.

With that proviso, I would definitely recommend this film to children, teens, parents and grandparents!

Longer review: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2024/06/matilda-mara-wilson.html… (more)

Each of the main characters reflects some aspect of Austen's books in their personalities or their lives; not so overtly as to be predictable, but running through the whole story. And because we see them in action rather than getting flashbacks and conversation, I enjoyed this very much indeed.

It's not necessary to be an Austen fan to like and understand this film - my husband has never read any of her books, although he's seen a few film adaptations. But it helps, to appreciate the ironies.… (more)