News

Call it a blue wave. A host of actors, directors, musicians, journalists and other prominent people are dumping X (formerly Twitter) and flocking to social media platform Bluesky.

In the past week, an increasing number of bold-faced names have announced that they plan to post less on X, or leave the platform altogether, citing myriad issues with the social media company, including far right content, hate speech, transphobia, racism, harassment, pornography, crypto scams, bots and the political views of owner Elon Musk, the billionaire oligarch who is a vocal supporter and financial backer of Donald Trump.

Musk’s ownership of X and his updates to content moderation on the platform have been pushing brands and media groups closer and closer to the exit. This week, The Guardian media group announced that it will stop posting on X, describing the site as a “toxic media platform.” On Nov. 4, the Berlin Film...

Being a child star can be deeply challenging. There are a lot of elements to both acting and fame that can be too much to handle for developing minds, not to mention that being on set all the time leads to a very different childhood than the average kid. There's a reason why quite a few child stars end up having "normal" jobs as adults — fame is a seriously tough mistress. So, it's really not a huge surprise when child stars disappear from the limelight as adults, but in the case of young actor Mara Wilson, it did seem a little shocking. After all, at just nine years old she was fast becoming one of the biggest stars in Hollywood as the titular character in "Matilda" and it seemed like she could have whatever career she wanted as an actor. However, after making the critically panned "Thomas and the Magic Railroad" in 2000 opposite Alex Baldwin,...

After hearing about Macaulay Culkin’s much-publicized struggles with his own parents ever since Home Alone made him a massive star, Chris Columbus knew that the world’s most magical orphan needed to be played by a child actor whose home life was more stable than the Dursley household.

Between Home Alone, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Mrs. Doubtfire, the legendary director has had a hand in forming some of the most high-profile child acting careers in Hollywood history, for better or for worse. The young stars of those projects, Culkin, Daniel Radcliffe and Mara Wilson respectively, have had ample time and media coverage to publicly reflect on how becoming famous so early in their lives affected their growth as artists and as adults, but Columbus himself hasn’t had to answer questions about the uncomfortable challenges that underaged celebrities faced in every People interview for the rest...

Sexual Harassment & Abuse Actress Alexa Nikolas, known for starring in two seasons of the Nickelodeon hit 'Zoey 101,’ led a protest at Nickelodeon's Burbank headquarters in August. Nikolas is the leader of an activist group that advocates for survivors of sexual abuse and has called out several Nickelodeon executives and employees, most notably resulting in the firing of long-time producer Dan Schneider. While Schneider was not found guilty of sexual abuse, several other names that Nikolas mentioned have been convicted of sexual abuse and misconduct towards Nickelodeon child actors. As allegations continue to surface in Hollywood, countless children may continue to be harmed. Things to do: Subscribe to The Hollywood Insider’s YouTube Channel, by clicking here. Limited Time Offer – Free Subscription to The Hollywood Insider Click here to read more on The Hollywood Insider’s vision, values and mission statement here – Media has the responsibility to better our...

I may have repeated this a couple of million times, but Netflix is a real modern-day hero when it comes to movies and shows from years ago that didn’t get enough attention back in the day, and the streaming giant’s renewed top 10 chart is yet another proof of it.

Netflix’s constantly changing top is always a weird mix of all kinds of movies that were lucky to get into its infinite collection, but one of the newcomers of this week is in fact a very unexpected challenger to compete with the streaming’s newest arrivals.

Danny DeVito’s fantasy comedy film Matilda is getting a second life on Netflix after almost 30 years since its theatrical release and is currently holding the 8th position in the US top.

Initially released back in 1996, Matilda is based on Roald Dahl’s 1988 novel of the same name and is helmed by...

“Mrs. Doubtfire” teen star Lisa Jakub marked the Memorial Day holiday by talking to Fox News Digital about her nonprofit organization Mission Flexible, which she founded two years ago to help support veterans suffering from anxiety, depression and more. She linked her work with veterans back to her most famous co-star, the late Robin Williams, revealing she was told after “Mrs. Doubtfire” that Williams always made sure veterans had the chance to be a part of his movies’ film crews.

“So many people have told me that Robin did a lot of work with the veteran population as well, and that he always had production crews hire local veterans to be background actors or things like that on set, which is not something I ever knew about when I worked with him… but I also love that little connection as well,” Jakub told Fox News Digital.

In fact, it was...

It’s tough to top a good cast reunion, especially after so many years. One that definitely brings back some memories is that of the kids from Mrs. Doubtfire – Mara Wilson, Matthew Lawrence and Lisa Jakub – who recently got together for a mini reunion more than 30 years after appearing in the hit comedy.

Taking to Threads, Jakub – who played oldest sister Lydia Hillard – wrote, “We had a little reunion…30 years later and my Mrs. Doubtfire family still feels like family.” She also posted on Instagram, also noting it was part of the Lawrence Brothers’ Brotherly Love Podcast: “The sisters had so much fun hanging out with the brothers. @marawilson and @matthewlawrence still feel like my siblings- even 30 years after filming Mrs Doubtfire.”

Even though Mrs. Doubtfire took in more than $120 million domestically and was one of the highest-grossing movies of 1993, it never received a sequel, so this reunion between the...

A Mrs. Doubtfire star is sharing how the late Robin Williams went above and beyond for her, both on and off-screen.

On a recent episode of the Brotherly Love podcast, alongside her Mrs. Doubtfire co-stars Mara Wilson and Matthew Lawrence, Lisa Jakub, who played Lydia Hillard in the hit 1993 comedy, recalled Williams coming to her defense regarding an issue at her school.

Jakub said she was still attending high school in Canada while away for four months, filming Mrs. Doubtfire. “We were going to set up this system, pre-internet, where I’d mail my school work back and forth to the school. We did that for a while,” she explained.

“As Matt well remembers, we had tutoring, three hours of schoolwork on set every day,” the actress continued. “We were a couple of months into filming, and my school in Canada sent a note saying, ‘This isn’t working for us anymore,...

Mrs. Doubtfire is one iconic film, cherished as a beloved gem that transcends generations to this date. It can now undoubtedly be said that Robin Williams didn’t just deliver a remarkable performance in the film, he also forged genuine connections with the kids, blurring the lines between reel and real life. Williams’ genuine connection with his young co-stars was evident when he came to the aid of one of them, who was expelled from school during filming.

Robin Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire

In a heartwarming reunion, the cast of former child actors gathered on a podcast nearly three decades after the movie’s premiere. Amidst the reunion, Lisa Jakub, who played Lydia, bravely shared the personal hurdles she overcame to pursue a career in Hollywood. Although Robin Williams ultimately emerged as a hero in her story, it was the principal’s actions that stirred confusion across the internet.

Robin...

In the glamourous world of Hollywood, where larger-than-life figures often dominate the spotlight, stars like Robin Williams shine not only for their talents but also for their compassion and warmth off-screen. The late actor, who worked with numerous talents throughout his career, has been praised by many of his co-stars, including by the young actors he shared the screen with.

Robin Williams | Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Lisa Jakub, who starred alongside Willaims in Mrs. Doubtfire, also recalled how the actor supported her during the production of the 1993 comedy film, during a recent cast reunion with Mara Wilson and Matthew Lawrence.

Robin Williams Supported His Mrs. Doubtfire Co-Star

The 1993 film follows a divorced father, who disguises himself as an elderly woman to meet with his children, played by Lisa Jakub, Matthew Lawrence, and Mara Wilson. While the film was a huge hit, it was not easy for the child stars to cope...

The child actors from “Mrs. Doubtfire” recently reunited nearly 31 years after the movie’s release for a joint interview on the “Brotherly Love” podcast, where Lisa Jakub revealed that Robin Williams wrote a letter to her school principal when she got expelled for taking time off to star in the blockbuster comedy film (via Entertainment Weekly). Jakub starred in the movie as Lydia Hillard, the eldest daughter of Williams and Sally Field’s characters.

“I got thrown out of high school on ‘Doubtfire,'” Jakub told her costars Matthew Lawrence (who played middle child Christopher) and Mara Wilson. “I’m Canadian. I was attending high school in Canada, then I left for four months to film the movie. We were going to set up this system, pre-internet, where I’d mail my school work back and forth to the school. We did that for a while.”

“As Matt well remembers,...

In a photo shared to social media Wednesday, May 1, original Mrs. Doubtfire child stars Lisa Jakub, Matthew Lawrence, and Mara Wilson joined for a group photo some 30 years after the film’s release.

“The sisters had so much fun hanging out with the brothers. @marawilson and @matthewlawrence still feel like my siblings — even 30 years after filming Mrs Doubtfire,” wrote Jakub, who starred as oldest child Lydia Hillard.

Added Jakub, “We had a little reunion.

Mara Wilson, Lisa Jakub and Matthew Lawrence haven’t acted on screen together in 31 years, but their work in the 1993 comedy classic “Mrs. Doubtfire” will always make them an iconic movie trio for a generation of moviegoers. The three actors starred as the children of Robin Williams and Sally Field’s characters in the film, which became a blockbuster three decades ago as the second highest-grossing movie of 1993 with $441 million worldwide.

“So funny that the same week I went to San Francisco, I got to reunite with my ‘Doubtfire’ siblings!” Wilson posted on social media along with a photo of the co-stars reuniting. “It’s always a joy to see Lisa Jakub and Matthew Lawrence.”

Jakub added that “the sisters had so much fun hanging out with the brothers,” and that Wilson and Lawrence “still feel like my siblings, even 30 years after filming ‘Mrs Doubtfire.'”

“Mrs. Doubtfire” director Chris Columbus...

"Who is Matilda Wormwood if not Carrie White without religious trauma?" This is a joke I made when interviewing "Abigail" directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett for the /Film Daily podcast after complimenting them on their decision to cast Netflix's "Matilda the Musical" star Alisha Weir as their titular ballerina vampire. "Matilda" is one of author Roald Dahl's most beloved characters, offering children both the fantastical wish-fulfillment of having telekinetic superpowers, as well as the ever-important message that reading is cool. The 1988 novel has been adapted multiple times across various media, most notably the 1996 feature film directed by Danny DeVito and starring Mara Wilson, the two-part BBC Radio 4 special, the stage musical featuring music by Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly, and the Netflix film adaptation of said musical.

"Matilda" consistently ranks as one of the most important children's novels and she was even given a Royal Mail...

In celebration of Women’s Day, put your feet up and dive into captivating stories celebrating Women’s strength, diversity, and resilience. From heartwarming journeys of self-discovery to nail-biting tales of fierce determination, this curated selection of films promises to empower, inspire, and uplift. So, grab your favourite snacks, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by the power of women’s voices.

Matilda

Directed by Danny DeVito, Matilda is a heartwarming film based on Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book. It tells the story of Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson), a brilliant and advanced young girl with telekinetic powers. Neglected and mistreated by her parents and terrorized by the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, Matilda discovers the power of friendship and inner strength. With the help of her kind teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda learns to embrace her unique abilities and stand up to injustice. The film celebrates the power of intelligence,...

For many film buffs, the classic Christmas film Miracle on 34th Street is their go-to holiday film. Subsequently, the movie depicts the best and worst of humanity and is essential viewing during the Christmas season. Altogether, the original film has spawned four remakes. However, they’ve all stayed true to the original script.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ (1947)

The film’s original plot follows Doris Walker (Maureen O’Hara), a worker at Macy’s Department Store in New York City. However, Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) realizes the man who will play Santa Claus is drunk. Later, he tells Doris, and she hires Kris to be the Macy’s store Santa Claus.

Her divorce disillusions Doris and her daughter Susan (Natalie Wood). However, their neighbor, lawyer Fred Gaily (John Payne), is surprised Susan doesn’t believe in Santa Claus.

When Susan meets Kris, she believes he’s Santa Claus. Fred believes Kris and clashes with Doris.

1994’s Miracle on 34th Street is filled with magical moments. But some were more enjoyable to film than others for actor Mara Wilson. The former child star, who played young Susan Walker, counted scenes with certain cast members as her favorite. Spoiler: Not Sir Richard Attenborough’s Kriss Kringle. Plus, some behind-the-scenes details about the film.

Wilson loved filming any ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ scenes with Elizabeth Perkins and Dylan McDermott

Wilson, who no longer acts, counted her favorite scenes to film in the ‘90s remake of the classic Christmas movie as the ones with two of her cast members. Not Attenborough, or even the reindeer in the courtroom, made the cut. Rather, her movie mom and dad.

“On set, anything that I got to do with Dylan McDermott and Elizabeth Perkins [was my favorite]; they were just lovely,” she told Entertainment Weekly. “In particular, the dinner table scene during Thanksgiving was really fun.

Christmas movies are one of the most beloved genres in cinema history with every film fan having their own select favorite that they watch and rewatch every year. However, while the genre is treasured, the Oscars haven’t rewarded it as much as you might think or hope. There are several movies, however, that have found their way into Oscars lineups. We’ve detailed just five of those Christmas movies that have managed Oscar nominations or wins.

By the way, “The Apartment” is not included on this list (but might be in a future article). The Billy Wilder movie won five Academy Awards including Best Picture (1961) but there seems to be debate around whether it actually qualifies as a Christmas movie or not. It’s set during the holiday period, but some feel that isn’t enough for it to be an out-and-out Christmas movie. Perhaps that’s one for our forums.

Is he really Santa? That’s the question actor Mara Wilson fielded about her co-star, Sir Richard Attenborough, over and over while filming the ‘90s remake of the classic Christmas movie Miracle on 34th Street. Wilson’s response, which she later revealed, was to give the “polite” answer.

Sir Richard Attenborough ‘really’ felt ‘like Santa Claus’ to Mara Wilson

Although her character, Susan Walker, didn’t believe in Santa Claus, Wilson herself got Santa vibes from Attenborough. The former child star told Entertainment Weekly that as a child on set, the late actor, who died in 2014 at the age of 90, felt like Santa to her.

Recalling how “lovely” and “fun” Attenborough was to work with, Wilson shared that “he really did feel like Santa Claus” to her.

“He was so kind,” she added. “He made it a really fun movie to work on — even though it was kind of ridiculous...

Take a look at any list of the :a[best kids’ movies]{href='https://www.empireonline.com/movies/features/best-kids-movies/' } ever made and you’ll be pretty sure to find Danny DeVito’s 1996 Roald Dahl adaptation :a[Matilda]{href='https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/roald-dahl-matilda-review/' } on there. A nostalgic, sweethearted, magical shortcut to the warm and fuzzies, there’s a reason why 27 years (and a :a[Matilda The Musical]{href='https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/matilda-the-musical/' } on both stage and screen) later, it remains a firm family favourite. All of which is to say that word of a Wormwood family reunion involving co-stars DeVito and actual Matilda herself, Mara Wilson, is more than enough to have us all kinds of excited – and maybe just a wee bit wistful.

Speaking to :a[The Messenger]{href='https://themessenger.com/entertainment/danny-devito-reveals-plans-matilda-reunion-mara-wilson-exclusive' }, DeVito – who played Matilda’s crook father Mr. Wormwood in the 90s classic,...

Danny DeVito is revealing he has plans to reunite with his Matilda co-star Mara Wilson for a concert event that would see them narrating the 1996 film.

“Mara and I were planning to perform Matilda live with the New Jersey Philharmonic Orchestra just before the strike hit,” DeVito told The Messenger about the reunion that was postponed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. “We had it all set, but, after the strike hit, we couldn’t proceed because it would be seen as a promotion for a movie.”

He continued, “However, we’re still planning to do that. We’re going to watch the movie with David Newman’s score and try to do it sometime soon, as it seems the strike may be coming to an end — I hope!”

DeVito directed the film based on the Roald Dahl children’s book about a six-year-old genius who develops telekinetic powers and...

Danny DeVito and Mara Wilson have a special plan to revisit their beloved movie Matilda… as soon as the SAG-AFTRA strike is over!

The 78-year-old actor and director worked both in front of and behind the camera on the 1996 classic. Mara, 36, played the titular character.

In a recent interview, Danny revealed that the duo came up with a special way to revisit the movie in 2023. However, it was delayed by the onset of the actors strike in Hollywood.

Read more about Danny DeVito and Mara Wilson’s Matilda project…

Speaking with The Messenger, Danny teased plans for a Matilda in Concert, which they were going to narrate while an orchestra performed the movie’s score.

“We had it all set, but, after the strike hit, we couldn’t proceed because it would be seen as a promotion for a movie,” he explained. “However, we’re still planning to do that.

Actor Danny DeVito has excited fans of his hit movie ‘Matilda’ by revealing he is planning a reunion with the lead actress Mara Wilson. He starred alongside her in the 1996 big screen adaptation of the Roald Dahl novel which also saw him act as director, reports ‘Mirror.co.uk’. The flick was a huge hit at the time with fans flocking to see it in their droves.

Now Danny has admitted that he and Mara are planning to collaborate on a concert version of the movie which will see them narrate the film over a live score by composer David Newman.

As per ‘Mirror.co.uk’, speaking to ‘The Messenger’, Danny said: “Mara and I were planning to perform Matilda live with the New Jersey Philharmonic Orchestra just before the strike hit. We had it all set, but after the strike hit, we couldn’t proceed because it would be...

Actor Danny DeVito has excited fans of his hit movie ‘Matilda’ by revealing he is planning a reunion with the lead actress Mara Wilson. He starred alongside her in the 1996 big screen adaptation of the Roald Dahl novel which also saw him act as director, reports ‘Mirror.co.uk’. The flick was a huge hit at the time with fans flocking to see it in their droves.

Now Danny has admitted that he and Mara are planning to collaborate on a concert version of the movie which will see them narrate the film over a live score by composer David Newman.

As per ‘Mirror.co.uk’, speaking to ‘The Messenger’, Danny said: “Mara and I were planning to perform Matilda live with the New Jersey Philharmonic Orchestra just before the strike hit. We had it all set, but after the strike hit, we couldn’t proceed because it would be...

Netflix typically refuses to release its actual viewership numbers to the public, making its weekly top-10 lists a fascinating peek into how streaming services actually operate. Netflix may pour millions into their original programs, but their ten most popular films or TV tend to (at least partly) be 25-year-old movies experiencing a seemingly random renaissance. Case in point: one of the hottest films on Netflix right now is Danny DeVito's 1996 family film "Matilda" based on the 1988 novel by Roald Dahl. 

"Matilda," critically acclaimed upon its release, is about the titular young girl (Mara Wilson) who lives with caustic, greedy, tacky, and abusive parents. Her new school is a bleak, Dickensian nightmare overseen by the bestial, cruel Mrs. Trunchbull (Pam Ferris). The only person who treats Matilda with kindness is the put-upon Miss Honey (Embeth Davidtz) who sees how bright and gentle Matilda is. 

Matilda sees little respite from her...

Sony Pictures

There’s nothing more powerful than nostalgia, and thanks to the Broadway and West End musical Matilda and its Netflix adaptation, we've been able to get a strong recurring dose of it. In 1996, millennials’ lives changed forever when the iconic adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda premiered, starring Mara Wilson in the titular role, and then-married Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman as her parents.

But now that we’ve learned that Jimmy Karz, who played the cake-eating Bruce Bogtrotter, is a full-fledged doctor, we can’t help but wonder where the other Matilda children are today. So where is the entire Matilda cast now?

Mara Wilson (Matilda)Sony Pictures / Getty Images

Now 36-year-old Mara Wilson left Hollywood four years after her big breaks in Matilda, Miracle on 34th Street, and Mrs. Doubtfire. She was later in Thomas the Tank Engine, but that may have been her last major...

“The Bear” staff writer Alex O’Keefe is calling out predatory streaming platforms amid the WGA strike.

O’Keefe, who has been vocal about the alleged mistreatment of writers across Hollywood, shared that his salary is $43,000 for penning the original FX series on Hulu. O’Keefe is one of the seven writers behind the Emmy-nominated series and does not receive streaming residuals.

“As a staff writer, you’re writing and revising for everyone but there’s no residuals on Hulu because it’s streaming,” O’Keefe told The New York Post. “That’s a huge injustice.”

He added about the ongoing work stoppage, “We need to come together and co-determine the future of our industry, but what they’re [studio executives] are saying is ‘get the hell out of our office.’ I want to get back to work. I would like it [the strike] to end this week.”

However, O’Keefe alleged that studio executives...

In December 2022, the critically acclaimed, mega-successful stage musical based on Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book Matilda came to cinemas translated into a punchy, inventive feature film. Written by playwright and screenwriter Dennis Kelly with songs and lyrics by comedian and writer Tim Minchin (Upright), the musical – like the book – is a terrific blend of poignancy and rebellious satire.

Famously adapted for a 1996 American feature film starring writer Mara Wilson in the title role, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary young girl born into a neglectful family who are unable to see, or appreciate her uniqueness. Matilda Wormwood isn’t just an academic genius, and when she goes up against the cruel, child-hating headmistress Miss Trunchbull, she uses her powers to right a generational wrong.

The new film retains the original musical’s anarchic heart, chiefly by retaining its director Matthew Warchus, who pulled the whole thing together...

Mara Wilson is opening up about being in the public eye as a child actor having starred in hit films like Mrs. Doubtfire and Matilda.

“I don’t think you can be a child star without there being some kind of lasting damage,” Wilson told The Guardian in an interview. “The thing that people assume is that Hollywood is inherently corrupt, and there’s something about being on film sets that destroys you. For me, that was not necessarily true. I always felt safe on film sets.”

Although Wilson recalls “some sketchy” things happening on the sets like adults telling dirty jokes, she says she “never felt unsafe” adding, “I think that’s because I worked with a lot of really wonderful directors, who were used to working with children.”

Her parents were protective of her on the movie sets and only booked her in children’s movies but says she “was still sexualized.

Mara Wilson is looking back on her time in Hollywood.

The former childhood actress broke into Hollywood at the age of six in “Mrs. Doubtfire”. The outspoken star has often spoken out about how damaging her time in the limelight was as a young child.

“I don’t think you can be a child star without there being some kind of lasting damage,” Wilson told The Guardian. “The thing that people assume is that Hollywood is inherently corrupt, and there’s something about being on film sets that destroys you. For me, that was not necessarily true. I always felt safe on film sets… I think that’s because I worked with a lot of really wonderful directors, who were used to working with children.”

Read More: Jimmie Allen Dropped By Agency And Management Amid Sexual Assault Lawsuit

While she was protected by her parents and the professionals she worked with,...

Mara Wilson had her doubts about being a child star.

The “Mrs. Doubtfire” breakout actress, who went on to cement her status as a ’90s icon in “Matilda” and “Miracle on 34th Street,” opened up about the “sexualized” pressures of growing up in the spotlight.

“I don’t think you can be a child star without there being some kind of lasting damage,” Wilson told The Guardian while promoting memoir “Good Girls Don’t,” adding, “People don’t realize how much constantly talking to the press as a child weighs on you.”

Wilson began her career at age six. By seven years old, Wilson’s fame “kind of snowballed” and she began being asked by journalists if she knew what French kissing was or could pick out which fellow actor she found “sexiest.”

“I had people sending me inappropriate letters and posting things about me online,” Wilson continued, citing that her...

A star at nine, the actor was soon struggling with the death of her mother as well as nosy journalists and demanding fans. Angry, confused and thoroughly lost, how did she ever find her way back?

It never made sense to her, Mara Wilson writes in Good Girls Don’t, that the enduring image of a child actor is of a spoilt brat. “A bratty child is one who won’t do what they’re told; child actors only do what they’re told. Brats are selfish and greedy; child actors often support their families. A spoilt and misbehaving child will not get very far in the entertainment industry.” Wilson, the star of some of the biggest family films of the 90s, including Mrs Doubtfire, Miracle on 34th Street and Matilda, only wanted to please.

She wrote the short-form memoir – an ebook and audiobook for the digital platform Scribd – after thinking...

The magical world of Hogwarts, created by J. K. Rowling, has captivated and inspired millions of people around the globe since the Harry Potter franchise began. The series follows young wizard Harry and his amazing magical adventures as he learns to use spells, concoct potions, test his skills in magic duels, and play Quidditch with his magical friends.

Through his journey, we see him encounter outlandish magical creatures that aren’t found in our muggle world – dragon’s smoke-phoenixes, werewolves, and a host of other magical beasts are all part of this fantastic fantasy story that has won over fans since its start.

Since the iconic debut of this franchise in 2001, magical adventures have become a staple in the film world. This franchise quickly became one of the most beloved adventure series of our time, turning Harry Potter into a global icon with a massive and loyal fan base that remains today.

HBO Max has cooked up a slate of several classic films as well as a few newer ones arriving this January. “The Menu” (2022) arrived early in the month after releasing theatrically in November before Thanksgiving. Danny DeVito’s “Matilda” (1996) can contend with Netflix’s new movie musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s book. And while Tom Hanks’ latest role “A Man Called Otto” has hit the box office, several of his films have landed at various streamers if you’re hankering for more after the tear-jearking feature film.

Hitting the sweet spot for dog movie lovers is “Marley and Me,” starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston, and the animated wonder “The Book of Life” is also newly added.

Here are some of the best new movies to stream on HBO Max in January 2023.

“Matilda” (1996) (Sony Pictures)

The 1996 version of Roald Dahl’s classic book arrived on HBO’s streaming service...

For Lashana Lynch, 2022 was all about showing off her range. In Sony’s The Woman King, she plays Igozie, a member of the historical, all-female warrior unit known as the Agojie, led by Viola Davis’ General Nanisca. While it required intense training (and doing her own stunts), it fit right along with the other roles in Lynch’s filmography — among them a pilot in Captain Marvel and a secret agent in No Time to Die. But it was Netflix’s Matilda the Musical, based on the Roald Dahl novel and subsequent stage musical that played the West End and Broadway, that was the major departure from Lynch’s string of badass characters. As Miss Honey, the kind and supportive teacher who attempts to protect the young title character from the cruel and brutish headmistress Miss Trunchbull (played by Emma Thompson), Lynch had to embrace her softer, less confident side — and belt some tunes.

Plot: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical is an inspirational musical tale of an extraordinary girl who discovers her superpower and summons the remarkable courage, against all odds, to help others change their stories, whilst also taking charge of her own destiny. Standing up for what’s right, she’s met with miraculous results.

Review: Roald Dahl’s novels have long made for wonderful cinematic adaptations from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory to James and the Giant Peach, The Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Witches, and The Bfg. While Danny DeVito’s 1996 adaptation has remained a cult and nostalgiac favorite for many, the 2011 stage musical brought a more faithful and expansive take on Dahl’s beloved novel about a little girl with big brains and bigger superpowers. In the decade since it hit the stage, an adaptation of Matilda The Musical has been in the works and now has debuted...

By many accounts, Roald Dahl wasn't a very nice person, and it wasn't until I re-read his books for my kids that I realized that his writing had such a mean streak, too. He certainly didn't sugarcoat the world for his younger readers and his magical adventures were filled with neglected kids, bullies of all shapes and sizes, nasty grown-ups, macabre humor, and strange comeuppances. His somewhat bleak view of adulthood was matched by Quentin Blake's scribbly illustrations which highlighted the grotesqueries of his caricatures, such as Aunt Spiker's sharp frame in "James and the Giant Peach," or the general grossness of "The Twits."

Of course, kids have pretty horrible imaginations as well, so it's no wonder Dahl's novels have been cherished favorites for decades. One of his most popular novels, "Matilda," was also one of his last, published just two years before he passed away in 1990. It features...

Roald Dahl’s 1988 children’s novel “Matilda” is a beloved, acclaimed book — consistently named one of the best children’s books of all time — for good reason. Dahl was the kind of writer who expressed universal truths about the harshness of childhood and the darker aspects of life as a kid by mining his own childhood experiences and woes, affording his underdog protagonists the kind of wildly imaginative adventures and fantastical comeuppance of which a kid could only dream.

In “Matilda,” as in Stephen King’s “Carrie,” a bookish, abused, and neglected girl asserts her own empowerment against the brawny bullies of the world using her brains; it’s a redemptive and hopeful fable for the scrawny bookworms of the world. That unlikely hero’s story, written with an emotional depth not often afforded to children’s literature, is what makes “Matilda” such a resonant classic, a story to be returned to again and again.

“Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical,” based on the popular West End show and not the 1996 film with Mara Wilson, doesn’t sing and dance its way to Netflix until Christmastime. But already, one musical number — the foot-stomping anthem “Revolting Children” — has captivated the internet’s attention, much to the surprise of choreographer Ellen Kane.

“I know that dancing is popular on TikTok, but I didn’t really understand quite how popular,” she says from her home in London. But Kane, whose theater credits include “Legally Blonde,” “Billy Elliot” and “Groundhog Day,” is grateful, nonetheless. “It shows you the power of dancers.”

It’s not Matilda (played in the film by Alisha Weir), a young girl with awful parents and a powerfully vivid imagination, who has been commanding the digital limelight. The viral moment — inspiring interpretations from JoJo Siwa to Missy Elliot and possibly every TikToker on the planet — spotlights a student named Hortensia,...

The spirit of Santa Claus has been uplifted through actors like Ed Asner ("Elf"), Kurt Russell ("The Christmas Chronicles"), and Tim Allen ("The Santa Clause"), but few come as close to capturing the inherent kindness of Edmund Gwenn in "Miracle on 34th Street." When talks of a "Miracle on 34th Street" remake were coming through the pipelines, I imagine it must have been near impossible to think of anyone who could recapture the same magic as Gwenn, especially since it landed the actor an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He even took part in the actual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1946.

Against all odds, the John Hughes-produced reimagining of the classic story about a kind-hearted figure bringing cheer to a department store at Christmas couldn't have chosen a better successor than that of Sir Richard Attenborough. The 1994 film may not be as critically lauded, but it secured the...

Exclusive: The creators of Welcome to Night Vale have set their next scripted podcast.

Audible is launching Unlicensed, a detective story starring Molly C. Quinn (Castle), Lusia Strus (Claws) from Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, creators of the long-running podcast Welcome to Night Vale, which is one of the most popular scripted audio series.

Unlicensed, which will launch on November 10, will also feature guest stars including Jason Segel, Janet Varney, James Urbaniak, Jasika Nicole and Mara Wilson.

T.L. Thompson (4400), who played Night Vale legend Lee Marvin, will narrate.

It follows Molly Hatch (Quinn), recently divorced, two years sober, and completely lost on where to go next in her life. On a whim she answers an ad for an assistant to a Pi, traveling to an unpromising strip mall on Citrus Avenue in Azusa, CA, where she meets Lou Rosen (Strus). Lou is a brilliant detective, but she’s also a completely disorganized mess,...

Musicals aren’t for everyone, but “Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical” seemed to be right on tune for the BFI London Film Festival.

The Netflix movie adaptation of the stage musical, which debuted in the West End in 2012, opened the 66th edition of the festival on Wednesday night, where despite starting 45 minutes late, it found an appreciative audience in the Royal Festival Hall crowd, which included a number of revolting children.

The Netflix and TriStar Pictures pic stars Emma Thompson as psychotic headmistress Miss Trunchbull, Lashana Lynch as Miss Honey, Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough as Matilda’s parents and Sindhu Vee as confidante Mrs. Phelps.

The film — which, it bears repeating, is very much not the book adaptation but rather the musical adaptation — introduces a great new talent in 13-year-old Alisha Weir, who plays Matilda. While a certain generation may still hold a candle for Mara Wilson’s book-loving rebel from the 1996 drama,...

Chris Columbus' 1993 film "Mrs. Doubtfire" would have been the highest-grossing film of 1993, were it not for "Jurassic Park." It was that popular. But whereas "Jurassic Park" has had five sequels and a few TV shows, "Mrs. Doubtfire" has remained a stand-alone phenomenon. The film is a reminder that high-concept, star-led scripted studio comedies were once an enormous box office draw, at least as much as well-moneyed, effects-driven genre fare. Anyone who saw Leonard Nimoy's "Three Men and a Baby" in theaters can back up this claim. These days, such comedies aren't as big business, and they aren't being rebooted with the same high profile (although some are being rebooted). 

The premise of "Mrs. Doubtfire" is thus: Robin Williams plays a voice actor and divorced dad named Daniel who is, thanks to his unemployment, unable to see his kids as often as he'd like. His ex-wife Miranda (Sally Field) has...

It's likely you've seen his face at the bottoms of your favorite articles, perhaps next to a portrait of Mara Wilson, entreating you to click on an article asking "Where are they now?" Jonathan Lipnicki is here. And he seems to be more enthused about his craft than he ever was. 

Lipnicki, as those watching movies in the mid-1990s likely recall, began acting at the age of five, starring as the adorable young moppet Ray, son of Dorothy (Renée Zellweger) in Cameron Crowe's 1996 film "Jerry Maguire." Throughout his childhood, Lipnicki appeared regularly in a series of high-profile family films, including several nostalgic classics like "Stuart Little," "Dr. Dolittle," and "Like Mike." With each project, his parents were always cautious to ask if he wanted to act more. He always did. As a teen, Lipnicki attended school, but, having been bitten by the acting bug, continued to look for work throughout.

The woman who played the Teletubbies sun baby as a child appeared on Big Breakfast this morning (20 August), with fans floored by how grown-up she now is.

Jess Smith appeared on the revived Channel 4 series, after revealing herself as the baby from the Nineties children’s show that ran on BBC Two from 1997 to 2001.

Several years ago, Smith had written on Facebook: “I’ve decided it’s time to tell everyone. I used to hide it but after a lot of encouragement from my friends at university, I’ve gained the confidence to come out with it.

“I am the sun from Teletubbies. There have been quite a few people pretending to be the sun but only I could tell you the real story.”

She then went on to explain that she happened to be in hospital for a check-up the very same day the Teletubbies producer had asked...

One of Roald Dahl’s most beloved characters is heading back to film. Netflix has released the first teaser for “Matilda the Musical,” set to debut on the streamer this December.

“Matilda the Musical” is based on the stage musical from Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly, which premiered on the West End in London in 2011 and received 12 Olivier Awards. The musical itself was adapted from Dahl’s original 1988 children’s novel, about the titular Matilda — a girl, born to a boorish, anti-intellectual and neglectful family, who shows intelligence from an early age. As she grows up, she develops the gift of telekinesis, which she uses to rebel both against her family and the strict regime at her school enforced by the child-hating headmistress Miss Trunchbull.

The Netflix adaptation of the musical stars Alisha Weir as “Matilda” with Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough portraying her parents, and Lashana Lynch playing her kindhearted teacher Miss Honey.

Roald Dahl's book-loving, super-powered young heroine Matilda Wormwood is heading back to the big screen. The author's beloved 1988 kids novel "Matilda" was previously adapted into director Danny DeVito's darkly-comical 1996 family movie of the same name, with Mara Wilson starring as Matilda opposite Pam Ferris as Agatha Trunchbull, the tyrannical principal of Crunchem Hall who delights in torturing her students by throwing them like Olympic hammers and subjecting them to twisted, abusive forms of discipline. DeVito and Rhea Perlman also star as Matilda's neglectful, immoral parents, with Embeth Davidtz playing the embodiment of all that is good in Matilda's caring...

The post Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical Trailer: Children Love to Revolt (and Sing and Dance) appeared first on /Film.

First, the stylishly cruel Baronness in “Cruella.” Now, the wicked Miss Trunchbull in “Matilda the Musical.” Is there any childhood villain Emma Thompson can’t transform into?

Roald Dahl’s beloved novel “Matilda” is getting another big-screen treatment courtesy of Netflix, this time a rock musical based on the Tony- and Olivier-winning production directed by Matthew Warchus. Thompson stars as headmaster Trunchbull who is set on extinguishing independent thought among her elementary school students, including the brilliant and uniquely gifted Matilda, played by “Darklands” star Alisha Weir. Matilda’s only role model, Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch), encourages Matilda to use her vivid imagination and maintain her curiosity, despite Trunchbull’s demands to get rid of all the “rebels” at Crunchem Hall.

The film will debut this holiday season on Netflix. Sony Pictures UK and TriStar Pictures will exclusively release the film in cinemas in the UK and Ireland December 2.

Per the official logline,...

by Camile Henriques

It's common on the internet to revisit films from childhood and realize that all many of them have going for them is nostalgia. With Matilda turning 25 today, I revisited the film. I'm happy to share that the Danny DeVito-directed adaptation of Roald Dahl's Matilda is as charming, for me, now as it was back then as a child in the 1990's, if not more, since the themes it touches on are given a whole new meaning now.

The film follows a little girl with telekinetic powers big enough to lead her through a new life whilst teaching her negligent parents a few lessons. She's portrayed by Mara Wilson, who, at that time, was one of the most prominent child stars post-Macaulay Culkin. Before Matilda, Wilson had a breakout role in Mrs. Doubtfire, a guest spot in the first season of Melrose Place, and a...

Streaming

Lionsgate‘s on-demand film content will be available on streaming aggregator platform ScreenHits TV thanks to a new partnership that was revealed on Thursday. The content will be available via Lionsgate’s AVOD and linear channel, Moviesphere.

“Our collaboration not only builds on the studio’s international rollout initiatives in new markets but clearly demonstrates its strong support for innovative, diverse, female-led media tech companies,” said Rose Adkins Hulse, founder and CEO of ScreenHits TV. “Because of its forward-thinking mindset, founders of young startups like myself have a chance to bring new ideas, technology and products to the market with a fair chance at achieving great success. Lionsgate is setting a great example, paving the way for new talent to become stakeholders in this new evolution of TV.”

Territories covered by the deal currently include the U.K., Channel Islands, Gibraltar, Isle of Man and Malta.

The ScreenHits TV...