Matilda – Shrove Tuesday (Recommendation)

Year: 1996

Director: Danny DeVito

Starring: Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Pam Ferris, Embeth Davidtz, Rhea Perlman, Jimmy Karz, Kiami Davael, Jacqueline Steiger, Paul Reubens, Brian Levinson, Tracey Walter

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdC_YMvYZyI

 

Shrove Tuesday is traditionally a part of the Christian faith, bench-marking the month long fast commonly known as Lent. This is where people test their willpower and give up certain treats. However, in more recent years, the day has become more of an opportunity for people to feast.

When looking for a film to celebrate Pancake Day, Matilda (1996) stood out as an obvious contender. The adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel revolves around the black sheep of the Wormwood family, Matilda (Mara Wilson), a child genius who thrives in the classroom. When she discovers her telekinetic powers, Matilda decides to seek retribution for herself and the victims of her parents, and the school principle, Agatha Trunchbull (Pam Ferris).

One of the most iconic scenes in this film, is introduction. As the Wormwoods leave a four year old Matilda home alone, she decides to take care of herself, and makes a perfect batch of fresh pancakes. I challenge anyone and everyone to listen to Rusted Root’s Send Me On My Way, and not think about this film or your childhood. It takes us back to when we all feared Agatha Trunchbull, shuddered at Cookie’s cake, and hoped to have a teacher like Miss Honey.

This wonderfully comical fantasy film made us all believe in magic, and fight for our convictions. The sense of nostalgia that overcomes us when watching Matilda, makes it incredibly enjoyable film to watch on a day dedicated to celebrating and feasting. I’m personally transported to my bratty youth whenever I hear those infamous lines: “I’m smart, you’re dumb; I’m big, you’re little; I’m right, you’re wrong, and there’s nothing you can do about it”.

No matter the reason you are celebrating Shrove Tuesday, let’s celebrate the childish joy we get from tossing a pancake, and watch a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Matilda set’s itself up for being a great watch; with such a unique story, it’s hard not to. The Wormwoods are caricatures of a terrible family, Trunchbull embodies our fears of starting a new school, and the magic is a metaphor for the power of free thought and determination. Ultimately, this is an uplifting and joyful film that should never be forgotten.