Matilda

Name: Matilda
Director: Danny DeVito
Genre: Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Released: 1996-01-01
Duration: 98 min
Rating: 7.2
Cast: Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Embeth Davidtz, Pam Ferris

1996Dir. Danny DeVito1h 38m

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Runtime1h 38m

Released1996

Budget$36M

Box office$33.5M

DirectorDanny DeVito

About This Movie

Danny DeVito's adaptation of Roald Dahl's 'Matilda' has this quirky blend of warmth and darkness. The pacing is really engaging, with a rhythm that mirrors Matilda's own growing sense of independence. DeVito's direction keeps it playful but still lets those heavier themes of neglect and resilience come through. The performances are a mix of over-the-top and heartfelt—Mara Wilson as Matilda is just spot-on, and you can’t overlook the hilarious yet terrifying turn by Pam Ferris as Miss Trunchbull. And then there are those practical effects, especially the scenes where Matilda unleashes her telekinetic powers—such a nice touch in a mostly CGI-heavy era. It really captures the essence of childhood rebellion.

Released by TriStar Pictures in 1996.Features practical effects for Matilda's powers.Based on Roald Dahl's 1988 novel.Danny DeVito also stars as Matilda's father.