What’s better than Roald Dahl‘s 1988 novel “Matilda,” about a young girl with psychokinetic powers who uses them to transcend her life’s crappy circumstances? For some, it might be Danny Devito‘s 1996 adaptation of the Dahl book, beloved by those the age of this writer. For others, it could end up being “Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical,’ a new adaptation based on the Tony and Oliver award-winning play.
While the new film hits Netflix this holiday season, it’s a familiar story. Matilda Wormword has a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, but she also has the worst parents and schoolmaster in the world. But, with encouragement from the inspirational Miss Honey, Matilda taps into power she never knew she had and takes charge of her destiny in the process.
Here’s the official logline from Netflix:
A brand new take on the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl, with a vivid imagination, who dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.
Alisha Weir stars as Matilda in the new film, with Emma Thompson as the martinet Miss Trunchbull and Lashana Lynch as Miss Honey. Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough play Matilda’s parents. Sindhu Vee, Charlie Hodson-Prior, Meesha Garbett, Rei Yamauchi Fulker, and Winter Jarrett Glaspool also star.
Tony Award-winner Matthew Warchus directs the film, based on Dennis Kelly‘s adaptation of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of “Matilda The Musical.” Tim Minchin provides original music and lyrics to the film, too.
Return to one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved stories when “Matilda The Musical” hits Netflix this holiday season. And if you live in the UK or Ireland, treat yourself to the film’s exclusive theatrical release there on December 2. Watch the trailer below.