Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical

A serviceable screen adaptation of a vastly popular stage play.

A spirited adaptation of the book and stage musical.

"Matilda the Musical" serves as a textbook example of how to adapt a stage production adapted from a book to the screen without sacrificing the spirit of its author.

A rewarding example of the perilous practice of building such efforts around children. Of course, it helps that the young star, Alisha Weir, is terrific, aided by wonderful turns from Emma Thompson and Lashana Lynch.

‘We are revolting children, living in revolting times!’ Tim Minchin’s genius lyrics make this a smash hit, with Alisha Weir, for all ages. See you at the singalong version.

For a film that takes this much glee in cruelty — Matilda is called “a brat,” “a bore,” “a lousy little worm” and “a nasty, little troublemaking goblin” in her first three minutes onscreen — it also includes scenes of genuine loveliness

Narratively lively, visually enchanting, and musically euphoric, it’s one of the closest any Roald Dahl adaptation has come to fully embodying the joys and melancholies that have made Dahl such an iconic storyteller.

A canorous adaptation of a remarkable children’s classic.

The film ranges from funny visual comedy to staggering musical and emotionally investing drama with two excellent core performances from Emma Thompson and Lashana Lynch.

Not to detract from anyone else’s good work, but Minchin’s spiky, precise numbers, their lyrics clear and lacerating even in the mass choruses, are key to Matilda’s enduring magic.