Based on the German story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E. T. A. Hoffman, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is Disney’s latest attempt to put a fantastical spin on one of history’s most beloved fairy tales. The film is co-directed by Lasse Hallstrom and Joe Johnston, both of whom carry a respectable resume of films including What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993) and October Sky (1999). Unfortunately, I don’t think The Nutcracker and the Four Realms will be joining those films as a well-remembered classic. Despite a star-studded cast including Mackenzie Foy, Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren, and Morgan Freeman, the film falls short of what this Christmas tale truly deserves.
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