Little-known fact about Matilda is blowing fans' minds

Even the film's biggest bookworm-turned film buff couldn't spot this one!

Cassidy Pearce

less than 2 min read

January 15, 2025 - 11:31AM

Matilda magic: 6 secrets behind the iconic movie

Lifestyle

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The original Matilda movie, released back in 1996, is a favourite for many, and for good reason.

It has a wholesome story, loveable characters, and that classic Roald Dahl magic - perhaps more of it than you might think.

Fans have spotted a little-known Easter egg in the film, and you’ll never watch it the same way again.

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Image: Supplied.

First, a recap

In Matilda, the titular character is taken in by her teacher Miss Honey, after being tortured by both her parents, and the principal, Miss Trunchbull.

It’s later revealed that Honey’s mother died when she was two, and her father Magnus invited his wife's stepsister, Trunchbull, to live with them and look after her, however Trunchbull abused her - like she did everyone else.

Magnus would eventually pass from suicide - though suspiciously - when Honey was only five, and he left everything to Trunchbull in his will.

Matilda and Miss Honey go on to return to Trunchbull's house to retrieve some of Honey's belongings, like her beloved Lissy Doll.

However, in the meantime, the two also go on a trip down memory lane, with Miss Honey reminiscing over her father’s chocolates, her own childhood bedroom, and a portrait of Magnus himself.

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Who is Magnus really?

If you’ve ever wondered who the man in the portrait really is, or thought he looked a little familiar, we’ve got the answer for you.

In Matilda, the picture of Miss Honey’s father Magnus is actually of a real person, and it’s none other than the author of the original book himself, Roald Dahl.

The painting was allegedly taken from his time in the second world war.

Who knew!