You’ve read the books, you’ve probably seen a film or two, but have you seen them all? Here is my Roald Dahl movies list, so you can tick them off as you watch them. If you love the films, I also have a complete list of Roald Dahl books – as there are way more books than there are films. So, sit back and enjoy picking your favourite movie from this Roald Dahl film list. I think my personal favourite is the BFG, although I have very fond memories of Danny, the Champion of the World, which was on repeat in our house when I was growing up.
Roald Dahl Movies List
Pre-1990
36 Hours (1965) – Based on Dahl’s short story Beware of the Dog
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) – Adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
The BFG (1989)
Danny, the Champion of the World (1989)
1990s
The Witches (1990)
James and the Giant Peach (1996)
Matilda (1996)
2000s
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
2010s
Esio Trot (2015)
The BFG (2016)
Revolting Rhymes (2016)
2020s
The Witches (2020)
Matilda the Musical (2022) – Musical adaptation of the stage show
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)
The Swan (2023)
The Rat Catcher (2023)
Poison (2023)
Wonka (2023)
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More (2024)
The Twits (Upcoming)
36 Hours
If you haven’t seen it, 36 Hours is a taut World War II thriller based on Roald Dahl’s short story “Beware of the Dog.” It is directed by George Seaton.
You’ll find that the film is an expansion on Roald Dahl’s brief yet suspenseful story. This does wonders in transforming it into a psychological drama that hinges on deception, espionage, and the fragile boundary between reality and illusion.
Watch closely as the story follows Major Jefferson Pike (played by James Garner), an American intelligence officer who is captured by Nazi forces just days before the D-Day invasion.
You’ll see that instead of being thrown into a prison camp, Pike wakes up in what appears to be a U.S. Army hospital in post-war Germany. He is told that the war ended years ago, and he is recovering from amnesia.
The hospital staff—including the doctor (Rod Taylor) and a nurse (Eva Marie Saint)—speak fluent English and present themselves as Americans.
The film takes a fascinating turn as inconsistencies in their stories begin to emerge. Keep watching this wonderful film, and you’ll find that Pike starts to suspect that he is the victim of an elaborate ruse designed to extract classified information about the Allied invasion.
You’ll enjoy how the tension builds slowly and methodically as Pike pieces together the clues and regains his mental footing. The suspense lies not in overt action, but in psychological warfare—how much Pike knows, what the enemy believes, and how much time remains before the truth is discovered.
I love that the film remains faithful in spirit to Dahl’s original story, which also centred around a wounded pilot discovering he was in enemy hands through a small but telling detail.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
There can’t have been a child of the 70s or 80s who hasn’t seen this film. It’s an iconic adaptation of the Roald Dahl book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, well known for its catchy songs, colourful sets, golden ticket and Gene Wilder’s unforgettable portrayal of the enigmatic Willy Wonka.
While watching this movie, you’ll see that it’s not a like-for-like retelling of the story, but it does capture the magic and moral lessons of the well-known book.
You’ll find that music plays a crucial role here, with tunes like “Pure Imagination” inviting viewers into a vibrant, fantastical world brimming with wonder and oddity.
What I like most is that the movie is actually slightly surreal. The story captures the wonder of the chocolate factory and marries with the moral lessons about greed, pride, and humility through the fates of the children, including Charlie Bucket, who visit the chocolate factory.
It’s said that Roald Dahl himself had mixed feelings about this version, but its impact is undeniable.
I believe it has introduced so many people to the joys and eccentricities of Roald Dahl’s stories. Perhaps even to people who would have never read the books. That’s why it’s a must-watch for young children and adults.
The BFG (1989)
This is one film that really stands out as it’s an animated film. Unlike later live-action versions, this film captured the magical essence of the amazing story through hand-drawn animation. It really is the perfect family film and a good introduction for your little ones.
As you are watching, you’ll find that there are lovely moments of friendship and courage, as young Sophie teams up with the kind-hearted giant to save children from the man-eating giants. It’s very different in terms of style from a lot of the other Roald Dahl films, but it’s one you’ll want to watch again and again. I adore the big friendly giant, and it’s a children’s novel and one of those movie adaptations that you’ll watch again and again. Author Roald Dahl should be proud of this children’s book and the little girl (and giant) that he created.
Danny, the Champion of the World (1989)
As I mentioned, this was one of my favourites growing up. It’s a lovely story about a boy and his Dad (Jeremy Irons) as they hatch a clever plan involving poaching pheasants from a wealthy landowner.
You’ll find this film is lovable as it’s down-to-earth and quite simple. It centres on love, ingenuity, and the simple thrills of childhood. It’s quite refreshing, and you’ll watch it again and again with your kids.
It’s quite different in terms of it being based on real life and not the fantasy world that Roald Dahl books are known for. Danny, the Champion of the World’s message about the value of togetherness and courage resonates softly but powerfully.
The Witches (1990)
This is actually quite a close match to the book written by Roald Dahl. This film offers a gorgeous blend of dark fantasy and humour about a boy who discovers a secret society of witches bent on eradicating children.
This wonderful film uses practical effects and makeup to create a spooky yet entertaining atmosphere and stars Anjelica Huston as the baddie.
As you watch, you’ll see courage and cleverness as the young protagonist navigates a world where appearances can be deceptive. It also seems that danger lurks behind every corner. It’s definitely one that captures the richness of Roald’s darker, morbid sense of humour.
James and the Giant Peach (1996)
James and the Giant Peach is a wonderful Roald Dahl movie and a great addition to this Roald Dahl movies list, which is directed by Henry Selick, and it’s a very surreal story indeed – one which you would expect to have been written by Roald Dahl.
This Roald Dahl movie is all about the magical and emotional journey of James Henry Trotter.
James is orphaned after his parents are killed by a rhinoceros and left in the care of his two cruel aunts, Spiker and Sponge. Throughout the early part of the film, James lives a miserable life full of chores and abuse.
One day, James encounters a mysterious old man who gives him something magical and says it will change his life. James finds himself accidentally spilling the magic near a barren peach tree, and it goes on to grow a gigantic peach.
James explores inside the peach, and he finds some rather large insects that can talk. A centipede, a ladybug, a grasshopper, a spider, an earthworm, and a glowworm. These creatures become his companions and surrogate family.
When the peach breaks free from the tree and rolls into the sea, this is where the story really starts to take on a life of its own. James and his new friends go on an extraordinary journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
They end up arriving in New York City, where he dares to confront his wicked aunts. The James and the Giant Peach film ends with him happily living in the pit of the giant peach in Central Park, sharing his story with other children.
Matilda (1996)
With good reason, Matilda Wormwood is regarded as one of the best adaptations of Roald Dahl’s books and is featured on this Roald Dahl movies list. The lovely tells the tale of a bright young girl with extraordinary abilities.
Matilda goes on to defeat a cruel headmistress and her careless parents, but the story that unfolds along the way is quite magical and endearing.
Matilda’s innocence, combined with her bravery, is reflected in Mara Wilson’s touching and realistic portrayal of the character. You’ll love the way this film offers comedy, fantasy, and drama. You’ll also be cheering Matilda and Miss Honey along.
The film Matilda is uplifting without losing the realistic edge of dealing with hardship. If you are looking for a real-world message, you could say it inspires children (and adults) to believe in themselves and to seek justice. It’s truly a treasure.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
Johnny Depp plays Willy Wonka in what could only be described as a peculiar and mysterious manner in Tim Burton’s adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The fantastical inventions and odd characters are vividly brought to life in this CGI-enhanced film which features on this Roald Dahl movies list. Follow the story of the magical world of the chocolate factory in a way that is novel in this new adaptation.
What I love most is the oddities of each child’s experience as they explore the chocolate factory. The film does a good job of capturing every detail of the book, as I imagined it when I read it. I mean, who didn’t want to go to the chocolate factory as a child, or an adult for that matter!
Burton’s darker, eccentric style goes well with Danny Elfman’s musical score. It’s widely known that some people aren’t keen on Johnny Depp’s Wonka, but overall, the film’s creativity and adventurous spirit hold a strong appeal to all ages.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
People rave about Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox as it is not only humorous, but it’s also well-made. It has a distinct style of its own, but it really brings to life the Roald Dahl story of Fantastic Mr Fox.
Follow the film as Mr. Fox outsmarts the farmers while juggling the challenges of his home life. It’s a stop-motion version of the famous book and showcases the sly wit of Mr Fox wonderfully.
There is an impressive voice cast, which includes George Clooney and Meryl Streep, and you’ll love the depth that these actors add to the characters.
If you watch this lovely film, you’ll come across characters who are displaying bravery, loyalty and most of all pressing on the importance of community. This is all wrapped in Anderson’s signature dry humour and warm storytelling. It’s suitable for all ages.
Esio Trot (2015)
Perhaps one of the lesser-known adaptations, as it’s a television film adaptation. Esio Trot tells the story of a shy man’s quirky plan to win the heart of his neighbour with the help of a tortoise, and it’s gorgeously endearing.
If you enjoy stories of a gentler nature – ones driven by patience and kindness rather than adventure or magic, then this is for you. It’s a refreshing film when compared with the loudness and brashness of other, more modern films.
The film highlights small acts of love and the sweet nature of hope and change. Dustin Hoffman and Judi Dench are wonderful as they play their roles in such a heartfelt way.
It’s perfect for those who are looking for a quiet, uplifting story that focuses on human kindness and the beauty of small gestures.
Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes (2016)
Classic fairy tales are twisted with unexpected and humorous endings in Roald Dahl’s witty poetry collection, Revolting Rhymes. This is next up on my Roald Dahl movies list.
Taking the lead from Roald Dahl’s signature style, you’ll find that each rhyme is a short but satisfying story that subverts conventional narratives and offers surprises and laughter.
Each episode is brief but uses a diverse range of animation techniques, which will surprise and delight you.
I think that Dahl’s clever storytelling and playful use of rhyme will surprise people and open people up to the unexpected. It is a great way to enjoy his lesser-known work. I would say these rhymes can be enjoyed by both adults and children.
The Witches (2020)
This is the 2020 version of The Witches and stars Anne Hathaway as the Grand High Witch. If you’ve seen both movies, you’ll find this to be the more polished and slick version, which has obviously benefited from CGI.
The movie is different to the original film, but there is a lot of resemblance to both the original movie and the book. There is much more up-to-date humour, and you’ll enjoy the production quality of this version.
The story still revolves around themes of empowerment and resilience, encouraging those watching to be brave when facing the unknown. It’s mixed feelings on whether people prefer the remake or the original. Some fans rave about the modernisation, and others say they miss the eerie edge of the earlier versions.
Why not watch both and see which you prefer? Either is a good choice for families seeking a lighter, more upbeat interpretation of this chilling tale.
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)
Henry Sugar (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a wealthy, fun‑loving playboy with a penchant for high-stakes gambling. When he is bored one rainy weekend, he discovers a peculiar blue exercise book at a friend’s mansion.
Inside is a doctor’s report detailing Imdad Khan (Ben Kingsley), a man who can see without using his eyes, performing astounding feats, even blindfolded
Henry is so intrigued and he then goes on to learns that Imdad acquired this ability through intense Yogic meditation under a reclusive guru.
He then steals the book and spends the next three years mastering the same skills.
On his return, Henry finds he can peer through the backs of playing cards, and he tests his powers in a London casino. After gambling this way, he finds himself with a large fortune, but unfulfilled by this.
In a moment of clarity, he tosses a pile of cash off his balcony into the street. The resulting chaos prompts a police officer’s rebuke: money like this should be used for meaningful good, not spectacle.
Heeding this advice, Henry embarks on a global charity mission: disguising himself, exploiting his gift in casinos, and funnelling the proceeds into hospitals and orphanages across the world.
Over two decades, he secretly builds a legacy of generosity. He ultimately dies of a pulmonary embolism—ironically, he had seen the fatal clot through his own skin.
Posthumously, his accountant enlists Roald Dahl (Ralph Fiennes) to document Henry’s story, preserving his identity but immortalising his transformation from selfish gambler to altruistic benefactor.
The Swan (2023)
Peter Watson, a small, bright, and gentle boy, becomes the target of two larger, more brutal teenagers: Ernie and Raymond. With a rifle gifted for Ernie’s fifteenth birthday, they torment Peter relentlessly. What begins as bird‐shooting escalates into horrifying cruelty—at one point, they force Peter to lie on railway tracks before an oncoming train and later compel him to fetch ducks like a sled dog near a pond.
The pair’s torment peaks when they murder a swan. In a grotesque display of power, they sever the swan’s wings and bind them to Peter’s arms, then coerce him into climbing a weeping willow. Under their order, he must pretend he can fly. When Peter hesitates, Ernie shoots his leg, and he teeters on the branch. In a surreal, near‑dreamlike moment, Peter imagines himself soaring like a swan over the village before collapsing into his mother’s garden, wings drooping—a haunting conclusion.
The entire ordeal is narrated by a grown‑up Peter (Rupert Friend), often voicing the bullies’ lines and reflecting on the cruelty with disturbing calm. Ralph Fiennes, who plays Roald Dahl, appears at the end. The film concludes by revealing it’s based on real events.
The Rat Catcher (2023)
In a quaint English village, a mechanic named Claude (Rupert Friend) hires a professional rodent exterminator known as the Rat Catcher (Ralph Fiennes) to eliminate a persistent rat infestation.
You’ll find that the Rat Catcher is quite peculiar and has several unconventional methods to outwit the rats.
As he goes about this work, a local reporter (Richard Ayoade) observes, intrigued by the man’s expertise and eccentricities. The narrative unfolds with a blend of dark humour and suspense, characteristic of Roald Dahl’s storytelling.
There’s quite a memorable part in the film where a rat’s perspective is portrayed using a motion stop sequence, which really adds a surreal and poignant touch to the narrative.
While the 17-minute film goes into themes of obsession and touches on humans and their desire to control nature, it also subtly critiques well-accepted attitudes toward pests and the ethics of extermination.
Wonka (2023)
In this whimsical musical fantasy prequel, Timothée Chalamet portrays a young Willy Wonka before fame and fizzy lifting drinks.
Ambitious and virtuosic, he arrives penniless in a delightful, Dickensian European city with dreams of opening his own chocolate shop.
The film from my Roald Dahl movies list follows Willy as he navigates his way around the obtable of a monopolistic “Chocolate Cartel”. They even trick him into servitude at a laundry that supplies the cartel, where he makes some lifelong friends.
As you’ll expect, the film is quite flamboyant as it follows the story of Willy Wonka liberating his friends and securing the capital to launch his shop. It’s a great prequel to the original story.
The Twits (Upcoming)
Anticipation surrounds the upcoming adaptation of The Twits, a story about a mischievous and mean-spirited couple whose ugly pranks backfire on them. The film is still being created, so not a lot is known for certain about it yet, but it’s still worth a mention on this Roald Dahl movies list.
The Twits’ story is likely to be a wonderful playground for creative filmmakers, blending slapstick comedy with underlying messages about kindness and consequences.