This is the film that made me think about feminist films. This was, of course, a childhood favorite, but it was when I re-watched it my senior year of high school that I really began to admire it as a fantastic children’s film.
First of all, it’s brilliantly paced. Although it’s only about an hour and a half long, I never felt that the story was rushed. This is something that’s incredibly rare in children’s films especially since this one begins by telling the story of the first six years of Matilda’s life.
But more importantly, Matilda always has faith in herself, and despite her high IQ and horrible home life she has confidence. While this is admittedly unrealistic, it sends a message to kids that they can overcome hardships. It also shows kids that adults are imperfect and have their own fears and struggles. It also should be noted that Matilda has a groups of friends that encompasses both genders, and that boys and girls alike enjoy playing in a nearby river and catching a salamander. There are no Toy Ships and even Ms. Honey never has a love interest. The movie ends with Ms. Honey holding down a successful career and raising Matilda by herself—no man needed.
Favorite Moment:
When Amanda Thripp shares with Ms. Trunchbull the “poem” Ms. Honey taught them in class to help them remember how to spell ‘difficulty’
Amanda: Mrs. D, Mrs. I, Mrs. FFI, Mrs. C, Mrs. U, Mrs. LTY
Trunchbull: WHY are all these women MARRIED?
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