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Matilda poster
Age Guide6+
MPAA RatingPG
Year1996
Runtime1h 38m
StudioTriStar Pictures
DirectorDanny DeVito

Cast

Mara WilsonDanny DeVitoRhea PerlmanEmbeth DavidtzPam Ferris
ComedyDramaFamilyFantasy

Matilda

1996

A brilliant girl with telekinetic powers endures neglectful parents and a terrifying headmistress while finding love and purpose through books and learning.

Content Guide

⚔️
Violence & ScarinessVery mild
Violence & Scariness
💬
LanguageVery mild
Language
👀
Sex & NudityNone
Sex & Nudity
🍷
SubstancesNone
Substances
😱
Frightening ScenesMild
Frightening Scenes
💚
Positive MessagesExcellent
Positive Messages
Role ModelsExcellent
Role Models

What's in this movie

  • Miss Trunchbull physically abuses children — swings a girl by her pigtails
  • Matilda's parents neglect and belittle her
  • A child is locked in the Chokey (a dark spiked closet)
  • A child escapes her family without adults' help

🌍 Cultural & Representation Concerns

✓ None identified

Educational Value

Celebrates intelligence, reading, and the idea that a good teacher and a kind adult can change a child's world. Roald Dahl's story translated with real warmth.

💬 Pause & Talk — Discussion Topics

  • 1.How does Miss Honey's own childhood connect to what Matilda experiences?
  • 2.What do Matilda's telekinetic powers represent about children's inner strength?
  • 3.Is it okay for Matilda to use her powers to stand up to adults, even if it means breaking rules?