Mara Wilson on how Matilda, which is 30 years old this year, changed her life

Thirty years after the 1996 film’s release, Mara Wilson says Matilda remains a part of her life. She loved Roald Dahl’s intelligent, justice-minded heroine and wanted to be her, but the role became a defining presence that overshadowed her identity. Wilson’s mother died shortly before the film opened, and she has said acting became a constant during her grief. As she grew older, Hollywood’s expectations made acting difficult. Writing later helped her feel in control of her story and identity.