6.8/10
100,005
170 user 40 critic

Matilda (1996)

Story of a wonderful little girl, who happens to be a genius, and her wonderful teacher vs. the worst parents ever and the worst school principal imaginable.

Director:

Writers:

(book), (screenplay) | 1 more credit »
Reviews
Popularity
703 ( 203)
3 wins & 7 nominations. See more awards »
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Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
Brian Levinson ...
...
Miss Phelps
Sara Magdalin ...
Matilda, 4 Years
...
Roy
Gregory R. Goliath ...
Luther (as Goliath Gregory)
Fred Parnes ...
Waiter
...
Lavender
Leor Livneh Hackel ...
Julius Rottwinkle
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Storyline

Matilda Wormwood is an exquisite and intelligent little girl. Unfortunately, Matilda is misunderstood by her family because she is very different from their ways of life. As time passes, Matilda finally starts school that has a kindly teacher, loyal friends and a sadistic principal. As she gets fed up with the constant cruelty, Matilda begins to realize that she has a gift of telekinetic powers. After some days of practice, Matilda suddenly turns the tables to stand up to her parents and outwit the principal. Written by Blazer346

Plot Summary | Plot Synopsis

Taglines:

Kids Rule! See more »

Genres:

Comedy | Family | Fantasy

Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)

Rated PG for elements of exaggeRated meanness and ridicule, and for some mild language | See all certifications »

Parents Guide:

 »
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Details

Official Sites:

Country:

Language:

Release Date:

2 August 1996 (USA)  »

Also Known As:

Matilda, a kiskorú boszorkány  »

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Box Office

Budget:

$36,000,000 (estimated)

Opening Weekend USA:

$8,209,000, 4 August 1996, Wide Release

Gross USA:

$33,084,249, 1 December 1996
See more on IMDbPro »

Company Credits

Production Co:

,  »
Show more on  »

Technical Specs

Runtime:

Sound Mix:

| (8 channels)|

Color:

(Technicolor)

Aspect Ratio:

2.39 : 1
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Did You Know?

Trivia

Apart from Miss Honey, Miss Trunchbull, and Cookie (the cafeteria cook), no other teachers or staff of Crunchem Hall are ever shown. See more »

Goofs

Right before the scene with the newt and the Trunchbull, Lavender is clearly seen filling the pitcher with water before dumping the entire contents of the jar (including the newt) into the pitcher as well. Later on, the Trunchbull pours herself a glass of water, and apparently empties the pitcher, but the glass is smaller than the jar that originally held the newt. See more »

Quotes

Agatha Trunchbull: [wielding a hammer throw] Some rats are gonna die today.
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Crazy Credits

Newts:
  • Mr. Speaker
  • Sir Isaac
  • Wayne
See more »


Soundtracks

Send Me On My Way
Written by Michael Glabicki, Liz Berlin, John Buynak, Jim DiSpirito (as James Dispirito, James DiSpirito), Jim Donovan (as James Donovan), Patrick Norman, and Jenn Wertz
Performed by Rusted Root
Courtesy of Mercury Records
By Arrangement with PolyGram Film & TV Licensing
See more »

Frequently Asked Questions

See more (Spoiler Alert!) »

User Reviews

 
One of our favorite family movies
4 June 2004 | by – See all my reviews

My daughters (ranging from age 9-16) have loved this movie for several years. I am normally a very sensitive person and wasn't disturbed by the macabre tone of the movie. Somehow the movie remains upbeat as Matilda is able to find someone who will love her even though her parents don't appreciate her. Young Mara Wilson shines as Matilda. Each time I watch this I am amazed at her talents at such a young age. I haven't heard of her making any films lately...I hope this is by her own choice.

In addition, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Pam Ferris, and Embeth Davidtz all were wonderful in their roles as Matilda's parents, principal and teacher, respectively. I have read the book, and yes, it is different as far as the setting goes, but in my opinion, they've kept the main ideas quite intact. Movies are almost never the same as books, because by definition they can't be. We have enjoyed watching this as a family for at least 5 years now and will continue to. I just wish they'd release a special edition DVD with COMMENTARY. I'd love to hear from Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman about the making of this someday classic movie. At least it is in my family. My criterion for a classic? We are constantly quoting its script to each other.

UPDATE: They DID release a special edition. It does have some fine extras, but I have to wonder why in the world didn't they offer a widescreen edition? That is a big disappointment.


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