Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical

Matilda the Musical follows a brilliant young girl who discovers she has real powers and a stubborn sense of right and wrong. Born into a chaotic family and ignored at school, she learns to trust her own abilities and the friendships she forms there. When her quiet courage meets cruelty and neglect, she begins to use her gifts to level the playing field for herself and her classmates. She makes a stand against the school's oppressive headmistress, and her small acts of defiance spark bigger changes around her. The story celebrates ingenuity, resilience, and the idea that even the smallest voice can change a room full of grown ups. Through inventive numbers and moments, the film balances humor with warmth.

Directed by Matthew Warchus, this 2022 film adapts Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical from the stage version created by Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly. It brings theater magic to screens, preserving the musical's whimsy, wit, and friendly energy for families.

The movie grossed about 37.3 million dollars worldwide on a 25 million dollar budget, marking a solid return for a family musical. Its appeal rested on familiar songs and a warm story, with wide availability on viewing after release everywhere.

Culturally the film adds to the ongoing wave of Roald Dahl adaptations making a mark in cinemas and homes. It showcases a young talent in Alisha Weir and a standout Emma Thompson performance, while Tim Minchin songs help anchor the story in family memory and musical theater fans alike today.

Critics largely praised the performances, visuals, and energy of the musical numbers, while some noted pacing differences from the stage show. The film foregrounds resilience, kindness, and the power of speaking up for others, giving Matilda a bright, modern message about autonomy and courage within a warm, funny story overall.