Review: Theater Director Matthew Warchus and Newcomer Alisha Weir Bring Broadway to Life in Netflix’s ‘Matilda the Musical’

Roald Dahl’s beloved classic “Matilda” has always been a family favourite, starting with the classic 1996 film by Danny DeVito, and then the Broadway musical—with songs written by Tim Minchin—starting in 2010. The story of Matilda has surpassed generations, with people of all ages identifying in some way to the magical little girl with extraordinary powers who is in the clutches of ordinary monsters—her uncaring parents and cruel headmistress. The musical has won five Tonys and has been seen globally from London, to New York, to Buenos Aires. It was only a matter of time for there to be a big screen adaptation of this beloved musical. And now, in 2022, the director of the original musical, Matthew Warchus, brings it to life for a Netflix/theatrical Christmas release of “Matilda the Musical.” 

Many already know the story of “Matilda.” But for those who need a refresher, it centres on a little girl who has mighty powers, who is ignored by her parents who resent the day she was born. She loves reading, as she describes “it’s like a holiday in your head.” It’s an escape from the torment she is living in; and with this she enrolls in school with the promise to read and learn. However, this goes on the back-burner when she meets Miss Trunchbull, the cruel headmistress who keeps a watchful eye over the students and treats the school like a prison. 

Alisha Weir is the Star of the Show

Emma Thompson takes on the authoritative Miss Trunchbull, who goes big with this role. On-stage the part is usually played by a man in drag, but Thompson pulls it off with a spectacular outfit that consists of lots of padding. Pam Ferris in the ’96 film is a tough act to follow; but Thompson transforms herself with scraped back hair and a wide jaw to become totally unrecognisable. 

The star of the show is Alisha Weir who plays the title role; and given it’s her first starring role, she absolutely steals the film. She nails the singing and dancing, but is also able to play out the emotional scenes that come from a child who has dealt with abuse and neglect since the day she was born. The rest of the cast all fit into their roles perfectly, like Lashana Lynch who plays Miss Honey. She displays a lovely singing voice, and handles a vastly different role compared to her appearance in “No Time To Die.” Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough are also worlds away from their usual roles playing Matilda’s nasty parents, and clearly loving the camp and horrible nature of their parts.

Stepping Away from DeVito’s ’96 Film

“Matilda the Musical” overall is a good adaptation of the musical, but for fans of 1996 film don’t expect a scene-by-scene reenactment. This film explores more of Miss Honey’s and Miss Trunchbull’s characters. However, it is a good family film. It explores a role model that is inspiring for both young girls and boys, and includes toe-tapping musical numbers that all ages can enjoy. 

 

 

 

 

“Matilda the Musical” is releasing on December 25th on Netflix and select theaters. 

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