10 Movies Where The Villain And The Hero Are Close Relatives

There were many villains in the life of bright youngster Matilda Wormwood; her parents and older brother being the worst offenders. Ever since she was born, Matilda suffered her family’s neglect and lack of caring, causing her to grow up fast and create a strong sense of identity based on confidence and independence. She didn’t rot away with the bad apples that surrounded her.

Father Harry, mother Zinnia and older brother Michael aren’t able to fathom Matilda’s determination to visit the library and learn new things every day, specially when the TV is on. And that which is not understood, it is often despised. Matilda is even belittled when she asks to go to school and is initially denied the right to basic education. She makes her parents change their minds by performing impressive telekinetic trickery that destroys their cherished TV set.

At first glance, the viewer might be tempted to think that the terrible teacher Agatha Trunchbull is the main antagonist of the film. However, on closer inspection, the real tragedy in Matilda’s story is the absence of a loving and stable household, one capable of providing suitable conditions for a healthy emotional development.

The villainous Wormwoods enjoy a brief moment of redemption by the end of the movie, when they decide to sign Matilda’s adoption papers and allow her to live with sweet Miss Honey. Then they flee as they’re being chased by the FBI because of Frank’s illegal hijinks. I know, getting along with family is hard stuff and Matilda can tell you a thing or two about it.