Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Matilda is a 1996 surreal family movie based on the book by Roald Dahl. It includes a lot of cartoonish violence, nearly all of it perpetrated by a bullying school principal. Children who displease the evil principal are put in "the chokey," a dark closet lined with nails and broken glass. A girl is picked up by her pigtails and flung over a fence. A boy is tossed out of a window like a javelin. A boy is forced to eat an entire gigantic chocolate cake in front of all his classmates; when he finishes, the angered principal smashes the giant cake plate on his head. There is reference to suicide in the story line and one use of "hell," plus "oh my God" used as an exclamation. When Matilda's parents aren't neglecting her, they're berating her -- so she decides to punish them. But she also stands up for the principal's victims. The film explores themes of youthful independence and personal identity.

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

Cartoonish violence, nearly all of it perpetrated by a bullying school principal. A girl is picked up by her pigtails and flung over a fence. A boy is tossed out of a window like a javelin. Children who displease the evil principal are put in "the chokey," a dark closet lined with nails and broken glass. A boy is forced to eat an entire gigantic chocolate cake in front of all his classmates; when he finishes, the angered principal smashes the giant cake plate on his head. Reference to suicide.

Language

One use of "hell," plus "oh my God" used as an exclamation. Also some "fake" profanity, in which adults use mildly rude phrases ("dog slime!") where they might otherwise swear.

Social Behavior

Though Matilda's decision to stand up for those who can't or won't stand up for themselves is admirable (as is her positive attitude), there's plenty of iffy stuff here. The movie is relatable for kids going through their own growing pains, but the fantasy-based nature of the way Matilda copes with her problems doesn't offer many realistic solutions for young viewers. The film discusses how "most ideas come from hard work and careful planning."

Consumerism

A box of Cheerios is in plain sight. Dented Budweiser cans.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Adults occasionally drink beer.