A new Irish star, 11-year-old Alisha Weir, has been cast in the title role of Matilda for the upcoming Netflix film based on the smash-hit musical inspired by the Roald Dahl classic. With Emma Thompson tipped to play the iconic Trunchbull, we wait in eager excitement for the film's release...
Until such time… let's enjoy some of the most iconic Roald Dahl adaptations already available. Considering we have "so much time and so little to see.. wait a minute.. strike that reverse it…"
MATILDA (1996)
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Starring Danny DeVito as both Mr. Wormwood and the movie’s narrator, this adaptation of Matilda stays true to the magic of Roald Dahl's book. In the title role is Mara Wilson, who had previously melted our hearts in both Mrs.Doubtfire and Miracle on 34th Street. Wilson gives us a sweet and delightfully mischievous Matilda who plays against the perfectly cantankerous Trunchbull played by Pam Ferris. DeVito also directs. (Available on Amazon Prime)
The Witches (1990 & 2020)
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You may want to cover your eyes for some of the scary bits in both of these adaptations of Dahl’s The Witches. The 1990 version stars Angelica Heuston as the Grand High Witch and, with the help of Jim Henson studios, gives us the memorable scene where she takes off her "mask".
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Anne Hathaway takes up the High Witch mantle in last year’s remake, and makes it her own. Instead of a carbon copy of Heuston, Hathaway’s Witch has her own ticks and traits - and, of course, a covetable wardrobe. (The Witches 1990 is available on Now TV, The Witches 2020 is available to rent online from YouTube from €5.99)
The Late Late Toy Show (2020)
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Some classic Toy Show magic with a pinch of Wes Anderson, as we see Ryan Tubridy transform into Fantastic Mr. Fox in his musical homage to one of his favourite authors. Set to the sound of Bjork’s It's Oh So Quiet, see how many Dahl characters you can count before it finishes... (Watch above)
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BFG (2016)
Steven Spielberg directs this "phizz whizzing" adventure about young girl Sophie who befriends a delightful giant (Mark Rylance) with the best turn of phrase. Luckily, the film has all of our favourite "titchy little snapperwhipper" quotes from Dahl’s original book. (Available on Netflix)
Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory (1971)
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Considering "a little nonsense is relished by the wisest of men" (and women!) this film is a must see for adults and children alike. All the classic songs are in there, from I've Got a Golden Ticket, Cheer Up Charlie and - of course - Gene Wilder's Pure Imagination is food for the soul. (Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime and to rent from €3.99 on YouTube)
