Danny Devito revealed his plans for a “Matilda” reunion during a recent interview with The Messenger and said he’s bringing the film to the live stage.
The famous actor and director expressed excitement for the upcoming project and spoke affirmatively about the plans that appear to already be in motion. Devito noted that he plans on involving Mara Wilson in the revival of the 1996 family comedy that was based on the novel by Roald Dahl, according to The Messenger. He said the two will reunite in “Matilda in Concert,” which will see the duo narrating the film with composer David Newman playing his score.
Danny DeVito and Mara Wilson are planning to reunite for ‘MATILDA THE CONCERT’ where they will narrate the film over David Newman playing his score.
(Source: https://t.co/mStI67RqkN) pic.twitter.com/F0tlqaRUoU
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 15, 2023
Devito is ready to bring “Matilda” back a full 25 years after the original series aired. The comedy set the platform for Wilson’s future success in Hollywood after she was featured as the story’s 6-year-old genius, Matilda Wormwood, who possessed telekinetic powers. Her character used her powers against her parents, played by Devito and his wife in real life, Rhea Perlman, according to The Messenger.
Devito expressed his excitement over the revival of this classic show and explained that it’s been a long time in the making.
“Mara and I were planning to perform Matilda live with the New Jersey Philharmonic Orchestra just before the strike hit,” DeVito said, as he referenced the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike that has not yet been resolved.
“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 said to The Messenger. (RELATED: ‘You’ll See’: Jerry Seinfeld Teases Possible ‘Seinfeld’ Reunion During Stand-Up Set)
Devito was hopeful that his big plans would soon come to fruition.
“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!” he said.
This will be the first return of “Matilda” in 25 years.