What a way to put families in the mood for the holiday season! This holiday season you are in for a treat, and it comes in the form of a whimsical movie, Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms.
Synopsis:
“All Clara (Mackenzie Foy) wants is a key – a one-of-a-kind key that will unlock a box that holds a priceless gift. A golden thread, presented to her at godfather Drosselmeyer’s (Morgan Freeman) annual holiday party, leads her to the coveted key—which promptly disappears into a strange and mysterious parallel world. It’s there that Clara encounters a soldier named Phillip (Jayden Fowora-Knight), a gang of mice and the regents who preside over three Realms: Land of Snowflakes, Land of Flowers and Land of Sweets. Clara and Phillip must brave the ominous Fourth Realm, home to the tyrant Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren), to retrieve Clara’s key and hopefully return harmony to the unstable world. Starring Keira Knightley as the Sugar Plum Fairy, Disney’s new holiday feature film “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is directed by Lasse Hallström and Joe Johnston, and inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic tale.”
As you know, I am a supporter of all (s)heroes, and the women in this movie are a great representation of that greatness (despite challenges with some). #NoSpoilers.
Now, let’s discuss some of those women in detail.
Clara
I love Clara’s intelligence, and I love that she was curious about everything that she encountered. She was fearless, and that is a trait that so many could use especially when they are faced with the adversity of any kind. The only thing I wished was that they explored the special relationship with her mother that prompted her to gift Clara with a “special gift.”
Sugar Plum Fairy
Sometimes people aren’t what they seem despite the bubbly and welcoming personality. The Sugar Plum Fairy was, well… sweet! I think that the plot twist with her character says a lot about her and her personality in this film.
Mother Ginger
Now, I love a great villain, however, remember, looks can be deceiving.
Misty Copeland
Misty Copeland was mesmerizing, and I could not take my eyes off of her. Her movements were pure magic and told the story of each of the Four Realms. For those of us that rely on visual images to the tell the story, you will enjoy that type of storytelling.
What About the Kids?
I would recommend this film for anyone five years of age and older. However, there are some mild scary actions, but I think most children will be fine with it.
Speaking of Family
For your pleasure, please find a set of family-friendly activity sheets. I think they complement the film and will allow you to have an open dialog about the movie as a whole.
Nutcracker Family Activity Sheets
Also, check out the “Family Traditions” featurette:
Overall
I liked the movie, and aside from additional details that could have been included in the storytelling, I believe that will have no bearing on this film and its success. This film put us in the holiday spirit and to top it off; my daughter cried at the end because it was so beautiful for her. The look and feel of the film was similar to that of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, which isn’t a bad thing. Besides, where can you see THE Misty Copeland dance The Nutcracker for a minimal cost (and that includes popcorn and drink for about four people). One hint: stay until the end.
Until Next Time!
Alert! Stay tuned for some movie related DIY activities that you will be able to do with your own family.
Leave a Reply