Emma Thompson also joins the cast as Miss Trunchbull, the play’s cruel director and antagonist.
The two join Lashana Lynch, who The Hollywood Reporter broke as being cast as Miss Honey, the kind teacher who encourages Matilda and her telekinetic gifts.
Dahl’s book centers on a precocious and talented girl who uses her powers to overcome aggressors, including her family and the school principal and to protect her friends. It was adapted for a film in 1996 in which Mara Wilson played the character with Pam Ferris as the Trunchbull foaming at the mouth. The film, while not a success when made, is now considered a 1990s children’s classic.
“Matilda will be a creative and renewed reinterpretation of the award winning musical Matilda, featuring talented young newcomers, alongside established stars,” said Warchus, who also directed the Tony and Olivier Award winning Broadway musical success. “I look forward to presenting this beloved and powerful story to a new generation of fans around the world.”
The film is being produced by Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title, Jon Finn, and Luke Kelly of The Roald Dahl Story Company. Netflix will be distributed worldwide, except in the United Kingdom, where TriStar Pictures will be distributed in cinemas.
Dennis Kelly adapted the musical that featured original music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
Matilda is a great opportunity for Wier, whose few credits include an independent horror film titled Do not leave home and a drama entitled Darklands.
Thompson will be seen soon at Disney’s Cruella, a new view on the 101 Dalmatians villain.