The Magical Worlds of ‘Matilda’ Book VS. Movie

As an avid book lover, especially a book-to-film enthusiast, I am ashamed that I never realized Matilda was a book. I know, I know — and I seriously consider myself a bookworm? My undergrad lit degree (collecting dust somewhere) is ashamed of me, to say the least. But thanks to the vast world of the internet, Roald Dahl’s “Matilda” was promptly added to my reading list.

To be honest, so many of Roald Dahl’s novels have now been added to my to-read list. Dahl’s dark humor and distinct narrative style were different and entertaining. In fact, my favorite part of this experience was reading it out loud to my family. I’m not sure if my husband or my 4-year-old enjoyed it the most.

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Matilda Book Synopsis (& Spoilers)

Matilda Wormwood: a pint-sized prodigy with a penchant for reading and a brain bursting with brilliance. Despite living with her parents and brother who literally exemplify any and all synonyms when you look up the word “imbecile”, isn’t one to be deterred.

In fact, she’s got a few tricks (or rather, “telekinetic talents”?) up her sleeve. She’s been an avid reader since the novice age of two, and her love for reading showcases her prodigious intellect.

As a kindergartener, her journey to Crunchem Hall introduces her to the oppressive reign of Miss Trunchbull and the sweet-natured Miss Honey. It’s here where Matilda’s discovery of her telekinetic abilities becomes a turning point.

A budding friendship with Miss Honey reveals the teacher’s dark, tragic past, stolen by none other than Miss Trunchbull, her wicked aunt. Determined to right these wrongs, Matilda uses her powers, sending Trunchbull packing, and restoring Miss Honey’s stolen inheritance.

Matilda learns her family is fleeing to Spain (presumably due to her father’s shady dealings) and Matilda finds a loving home with Miss Honey. The two beautiful, brainy, and underappreciated souls live happily ever after.

Matilda Book VS. Movie

The film version of ‘Matilda’ is a fun and faithful adaptation of Dahl’s beloved tale. It brought a mischievous charm and wit that is sure to live with you well after the final credits.

The movie adaptation decided not to keep us in suspense for too long. Our Matilda was flinging objects with her mind much sooner than her literary counterpart. This quick introduction to her powers added an electrifying dynamic to the movie from the get-go. Plus, so many added telekinetic scenes that make the movie the magical, humorous splendor it is:

1. Matilda breaking the family TV
2. The carrot-launching moment with her brother
3. The empowering door slam in response to DeVito’s outburst
4. Practicing powers in the house (who doesn’t adore this iconic scene with Little Bitty Pretty One playing?)

However, the highlight of the movie has to be the added nerve-wracking scene where Matilda and Miss Honey become unwelcome guests in Miss Trunchbull’s house. With every creak of the floor and ominous shadow, you can feel the excitement mounting. And it wasn’t just about trespassing or playing a prank – it was about reclaiming memories, rights, and a past stolen by the formidable Trunchbull.

When Matilda returns to the house later that night, she uses her powers to retrieve Miss Honey’s cherished baby doll and replace the dominating portrait of the Trunchbull with the gentle face of Magnus. It was a heartwarming moment that instilled fear in the Trunchbull for the first time.

Matilda’s misadventure into Trunchbull’s territory brilliantly sets up for the haunting classroom confrontation the next morning. After all, if you believed your home was haunted by the very person you’d wronged, wouldn’t you be terrified when his message suddenly appeared on the chalkboard? With the context of the previous “haunting,” Miss Trunchbull’s terror feels so much more genuine.

Lastly, an additional change I love is that Matilda’s powers remain. In the book, she reveals to Miss Honey that her telekinetic abilities have vanished. Yet, in the film, the narrator mentions Matilda seldom uses her powers, but we do see her employ them to fetch a bedtime story for herself and Miss Honey.

This adaptation ensures that Matilda’s magic endures evermore.

Matilda Final Thoughts

Usually, I’m the person who annoyingly proclaims, “The book was better!” However, when it comes to the movie adaptation of Matilda, I truly appreciate the unique charm it brings to the table. While the book is undeniably brilliant, the film offers its own magical moments and additional scenes that resonate deeply with me. It stands as a heartfelt tribute to Dahl’s story, presenting a visual delight that captures the essence of the original.

For a dash of magic, both the book and movie versions of Matilda deliver beautifully.