Most of us know the bones of the story: Matilda Wormwood is a child prodigy born to the world’s worst parents. She finds solace in books and a kind teacher named Miss Honey, eventually discovering she has telekinetic powers that she uses to overthrow the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.

This version is based on the stage musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. If you’re used to the 1996 film, the biggest shock will be the tone. It’s more stylized and theatrical. Miss Trunchbull (played by Emma Thompson in heavy prosthetics) isn't just a bully; she’s a grotesque, Olympic-level hammer thrower who views children as "maggots."

The reason this movie blew up on TikTok and YouTube isn't just the catchy music; it’s the choreography. The "Revolting Children" sequence is a masterclass in kid-empowerment.

In a world where kids often feel like they have zero agency—governed by school schedules, parental rules, and digital filters—the song "Naughty" is a literal anthem for standing up for yourself. The lyric "Even if you're little, you can do a lot / You mustn't let a little thing like 'little' stop you" hits hard for the 7-to-11-year-old demographic.

It’s also culturally fluent in a way that resonates with the "Skibidi" generation. It’s fast-paced, visually dense, and the "red beret girl" (dancer Meesha Garbett) became an overnight icon for her attitude and precision. Kids see that and they don't just want to watch it—they want to be it.

If you're looking for more ways to engage your kids with music-driven storytelling, check out our guide to the best musical movies for kids.

In Matilda the Musical, the songs aren't just filler. They are internal monologues. "When I Grow Up" is a genuinely moving song about childhood expectations that usually hits parents harder than the kids. It’s a great entry point for talking about what your kids are actually looking forward to about "being big," versus the reality of adulthood.

While the 1996 movie felt like a PG family comedy, the musical leans into the "dark" side of Roald Dahl.

If your child is particularly sensitive to "mean" adults or child-in-peril themes, you might want to pre-watch the "Smell of Rebellion" or the hammer-throw scene.

Ask our chatbot for more movies with "scary but safe" villains

The central theme of the movie is that sometimes, to make things right, you have to be a little bit "naughty." For some parents, this can feel like it’s encouraging defiance.

However, within the context of the story, Matilda’s "naughtiness" is actually moral courage. She isn't being rude for the sake of it; she’s standing up against actual abuse and injustice. This is a fantastic "teachable moment" (I know, I know, we hate that phrase, but it’s true).

How to talk about it:

If your family falls in love with the musical, it’s the perfect excuse to dive into the rest of the Dahl-verse.

The book is much more internal and focuses heavily on Matilda’s love of reading. It’s a great "read-aloud" for kids who are into the movie.

This version is much more "Americanized" and grounded. It lacks the explosive musical numbers but has a warmth that the musical sometimes trades for spectacle.

If they liked the whimsical-but-slightly-dangerous vibe, the recent Wonka movie is a great follow-up. It’s less "scary" than Matilda but keeps the musical magic.

Check out our full guide to Roald Dahl adaptations

Matilda the Musical is a rare "certified fresh" win for family movie night. It’s smart, it’s visually incredible, and it actually has something to say about justice and literacy.

Yes, Miss Trunchbull is a nightmare. Yes, your kids will probably try to put "hair dye" in your hat (don't let them). But the message that kids have power and that "being naughty" can sometimes mean "being brave" is a conversation worth having.

Next Steps:

Learn more about navigating dark humor in kids' media