Oscar winner Emma Thompson will take on the role of domineering and towering headmistress Miss Trunchbull in Netflix's film adaptation of the Matilda musical. The streaming service also announced that 11-year-old newcomer Alisha Weir has been cast in the title role.

The two join the previously reported Lashana Lynch (Captain Marvel, No Time to Die), who will play Matilda's benevolent teacher Miss Honey.

Matthew Warchus, who directed the musical in London and on Broadway, returns to helm the movie. Dennis Kelly will adapt his script, based on the Roald Dahl novel, for the screen, incorporating Tim Minchin's Tony-nominated score.

The confirmation of Thompson's casting follows speculation that Ralph Fiennes would play the role; in the stage show, the role is typically played by a man (Bertie Carvel earned an Olivier Award and Tony nod for his performance in the original production).

Thompson's previous musical credits include the live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast and Sweeney Todd in London and New York.

Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title produce alongside Jon Finn and The Roald Dahl Story Company's Luke Kelly.