A movie, based on a musical, based on a film, based on a book. What can possibly go wrong?
Honestly? Not much.
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical didn’t have an easy task. Remaking what some would consider an already perfect adaptation of Dahl’s classic novel seems unnecessary. But this new film by director Matthew Warchus (Pride) isn’t a remake per se. Rather, it’s an adaptation of the West End musical, with songs and big-scale dance numbers packed into its run time.
Fans of the source material can rest easy. The movie is, for the most part, a fantastic translation of the hit show. Some familiar set pieces and stagings may have been removed or altered, but they’re replaced with strong narrative choices that never feel forced or insulting.
Warchus returns to the material, having helmed the stage production on both sides of the pond. He plays with the new medium in interesting ways, and even if the CGI can be a tad questionable at times, he never feels constricted by the frame. His camerawork is light, kinetic, and assured. He wisely keeps most of the original creative team on board too, resulting in a faithful adaptation that soars far more often than it falls.
Most of the songs from the original show remain. And good thing too, as with Matilda, Tim Minchin has crafted one of musical theatre’s finest scores. Each tune is a delight, with all the lyrical and symphonic deftness of someone completely in their element. Christopher Nightingale breathes new life into them too with fresh orchestrations.
Alisha Weir makes an outstanding turn as the titular heroine. Comparisons will undoubtedly be made to the iconic portrayal by Mara Wilson in the 1996 film, perhaps unfairly so. The ever present twinkle in Wilson’s eye may not always be here, but Weir’s Matilda is fiery, caring, and unflinching. It’s easy to label Emma Thompson as the standout here, but all the cast hold their own regardless of how experienced they are in front of a camera. Lashana Lynch does a gorgeous rendition of one of the film’s best songs, ‘My House’.
The pacing suffers a little in the second act, and a sub plot involving two acrobats threatens to drag down the proceedings, even if the payoff is emotionally impactful.
Adapting such a beloved story can be daunting. Matthew Warchus and co. assuage any fears with a film that feels familiar and classic but ultimately timeless. A bright, joyful burst of energy that grabs you and hugs you until you feel all the air is going to get squeezed out.
