Matilda the Musical (2022), directed by Matthew Warchus

Translation from stage to screen can be tricky, but this has been done very well. The matching of Roald Dahl with Tim Minchin is sublime, with such clever songs that naturally flow with the narrative. The casting is spot on: Emma Thompson brilliantly awful as Miss Trunchbull; Lashana Lynch sweetly brave as Miss Honey; and Alisha Weir fiercely determined as the fabulous heroine. Who knew action star Lynch could sing so beautifully? All Dahl’s children’s tales have dark elements and Matilda is one of the darkest, with its themes of child neglect and abuse. But this film does a great job with the message of solidarity and standing up to bullies. And its celebration of smart girls who love books is refreshing. A thoroughly enjoyable movie.