I watched Matilda: The Musical and I liked it. 3.5/5
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“Matilda: The Musical” (2022) brings the beloved Roald Dahl story to life with a vibrant and energetic adaptation that celebrates the power of imagination and resilience. Directed by Matthew Warchus, this film adaptation of the Tony and Olivier Award-winning stage musical captures the essence of Dahl’s dark humor and whimsical storytelling, albeit with some uneven execution. The result is a visually stunning and musically delightful experience that, while not perfect, earns a respectable 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Alisha Weir stars as Matilda Wormwood, the precocious and gifted young girl with a love for books and an unyielding spirit. Weir’s performance is charming and heartfelt, capturing Matilda’s intelligence, curiosity, and quiet defiance against the oppressive adults in her life. She brings a fresh energy to the role, balancing innocence and determination in a way that makes her Matilda both relatable and inspiring. Weir’s vocal talents are showcased in numbers like “Naughty,” where her expressive delivery and youthful exuberance shine through.
The supporting cast is equally commendable, with standout performances from Emma Thompson as the formidable Miss Trunchbull and Lashana Lynch as the compassionate Miss Honey. Thompson’s portrayal of the tyrannical headmistress is both terrifying and darkly comedic, embodying the larger-than-life villainy that Trunchbull represents. Lynch, on the other hand, brings warmth and vulnerability to Miss Honey, providing a perfect counterbalance to Trunchbull’s cruelty. The chemistry between Weir and Lynch adds an emotional depth to the story, making their bond one of the film’s highlights.
Visually, “Matilda: The Musical” is a treat. The production design, costume design, and cinematography work in harmony to create a vibrant and colorful world that feels both whimsical and grounded. The set pieces, particularly the scenes in Matilda’s home and school, are meticulously crafted, adding to the film’s overall charm. The use of color and lighting enhances the story’s mood, shifting from the bright and lively scenes of Matilda’s imagination to the darker, more oppressive moments in her reality.
Musically, the film features Tim Minchin’s catchy and clever score, which translates well from stage to screen. Songs like “When I Grow Up” and “Revolting Children” are both energetic and emotionally resonant, capturing the spirit of rebellion and hope that permeates the story. The choreography, especially in the group numbers, is lively and inventive, adding a dynamic visual element to the musical sequences.
However, “Matilda: The Musical” is not without its flaws. The film’s pacing can be uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others drag on longer than necessary. This unevenness affects the film’s overall flow, sometimes disrupting the emotional buildup and payoff of key moments. Additionally, while the film stays largely true to its source material, some of the darker elements of Dahl’s story are toned down, which may disappoint fans of the original book and stage musical who appreciate its more biting satire and edge.
Another minor issue is that while the film’s visuals and performances are strong, the transition from stage to screen doesn’t always capture the same sense of intimacy and immediacy that live theater provides. Some of the musical numbers, while well-executed, lack the punch and impact they might have had in a live setting. This is a common challenge for musical adaptations, and while “Matilda: The Musical” navigates it reasonably well, it doesn’t entirely overcome it.
In conclusion, “Matilda: The Musical” is a delightful and entertaining adaptation that captures much of the magic and heart of Roald Dahl’s beloved story. With strong performances, catchy songs, and vibrant visuals, it offers a fresh take on a classic tale. However, its uneven pacing and slight dilution of the source material’s darker elements keep it from reaching its full potential. Nonetheless, it’s a worthy addition to the “Matilda” legacy, and a fun, family-friendly film that will likely leave viewers humming its tunes long after the credits roll.