A precocious child, cruel adults, and macabre humor? Sounds like a Roald Dahl story! Danny DeVito directed this 1996 adaption of Matilda, starring Mara Wilson as the title character who uses her newly-discovered telekinetic powers to challenge her education-averse parents and the tyrannical headmistress of her new school. As Roger Ebert said, “Matilda doesn’t condescend to children, it doesn’t sentimentalize, and…it feels heartfelt and sincere. It’s funny, too.” This film is suitable for ages 9+