When Hubby and I were still newlyweds (like less than five years of marriage and no kids), we rotated the responsibility of planning a special Christmas date for each other. I know, those were the days, right? One year, we went to dinner and visited the local zoo lit up with festive decor. That was spectacular! The next year, which happened to be the year I planned, we went to a fancy dinner and then off to the ballet. Neither of us had been to a ballet before, but we both had a tremendous appreciation for theater and the arts. Since it was Christmas, the obvious choice was to see The Nutcracker, which was playing at the local theater in town. It was a magical evening ~ one filled with all the holiday feels.
Disclaimer #1: I received an invite to a complimentary media screening. All opinions in this post are 100% mine and mine alone.
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The Nutcracker and The Four Realms
Fast forward to 2018 and here we have Walt Disney Pictures bringing us a re-imagined version of the story we have come to know and cherish for decades. I kid you not ~ I had been eagerly anticipating the screening of Disney’s The Nutcracker and The Four Realms, as I am infatuated with Christmas and love a great classic. I have also grown to adore how Disney brings these treasured stories to life so that we can enjoy them with a fresh, new perspective.
The Nutcracker and The Four Realms is no exception. It does present a fresh look at the story of a young girl, a nutcracker soldier, a godfather and mouse. A lot of creative license is employed, but I think we have all come to expect that with this story. I was chatting with a friend of mine from high school, whose daughters have danced in several productions of this story. She was quick to point out to me that they have seen various fractures of the tale from the original ~ one even including a bear!
Needless to say, however, the writers of this film did an exquisite job at drawing from and making sweet, poignant and pertinent references to both the original story and the ballet (which in and of itself is a reshaping of the original story from E.T.A. Hoffman, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King).
Let’s Chat About The Movie Itself
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.
The movie takes on the feel of watching Chronicles of Narnia with a slight nod to Alice in Wonderland, the latter portion of this description credited to my friend’s son, Xander (see her review on whether the movie is kid-friendly here). It certainly won’t satisfy the realist, who will be quick to find certain holes and inconsistencies, but it will appease the dreamer as it takes them on a magical adventure of self discovery.

The imagery and set design are stunning. I found it visually stimulating and the movie has all the elements needed to turn itself into a seasonal favorite. It’s colorful, masterful and magical ~ everything you would expect a Disney picture to be. There’s no surprise there.
The Cast
The casting was well done. I am always amazed by Morgan Freeman and he, of course, commanded with loving authority the small, but intimate role of Drosselmeyer, Clara’s godfather. Mackenzie Foy, in her first major studio role, is both strong and adorable as 14 year old Clara. She brought true heart and authenticity to the character.
Jayden Fowora-Knight was charming as the Nutcracker soldier; however, I have to admit that I would have liked to have seen a little more out of him ~ in more ways than one. I simply feel carrying the title role should have had more impact, charisma and life ~ but that’s just my opinion. His part felt more like an extra, or a sidekick, and lacked creativity.

READ ALSO: Why Ballet Dancers should see The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
When it comes to the iconic Helen Mirren, of course, she harnessed the role of Mother Ginger with fervor, strength and relentlessness. Both Eugenio Derbez (Hawthorne) and Richard E. Grant (Shiver) creatively mastered their roles, as well, as the regents of their own realms. They, along with the two butlers, offered a little comic relief that kept my son and I chuckling in our seats.
The surprise for me, however, was with Keira Knightly. Her Sugar Plum Fairy personality throughout the film stole the audience’s attention and she did a great job in a role that was written somewhat out of character and with a unique twist.
Four Takeaways from Inside the Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Of course, for me, a movie never satisfies unless it has a message. I love to walk away knowing there was something for me to learn, think upon or be challenged by. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms had numerous poignant statements and drew from the original and ballet in order to make their points both clear and valid.
Not every lock is as easy to pick as others
The modern tale centers around recovering from a loss. We all face that kind of loss at one point or another and we all heal in different ways. If we were each a lock that required a key to open, we would find each keyhole different and some even comprised of a more unique locking mechanism. Not every lock will be as easy to pick as others. What a great way to say that we all need to respect the various ways we grieve, mourn, grow and heal in a fashion that is compatible with our own personalities.
Some can move forward without looking back. Others need time to cry, scream and feel deep sadness. Still others need to find ways to help those around them so that they can heal through watching others heal. It’s always a process and that process looks differently for each and every individual.
Being unique is important
I look at my boys and, while I see similarities, I see tremendous contrasts, as well. They all respond to things in a different way and they are all fascinated by different topics. One is dream deep into theater. Another is a die hard for computer programming. The third is into numbers like the alphabet doesn’t even exist.
Clara’s individuality is the stand out feature in this movie. She is not like her siblings and her strong scientific mind doesn’t fit in with the typical stereotype of a Victorian-age fourteen year old girl. She is more akin to her mother, Marie (a nod to the original story by E.T.A. Hoffman), whom Clara misses tremendously. Her mother knew her daughter was unique and that those strengths would come in handy some day. It was no surprise that, through her adventures in the parallel universe, Clara discovers those unique qualities about herself and is able to celebrate them rather than tuck them away.

Everything you need is inside – confidence, determination
When grief strikes, it is easy to forget the strength you own within. You get lost within yourself and in the circumstances and it becomes difficult to move forward. It’s easy to retreat and not want to participate with others, even family. Clara was feeling every ounce of that burden and her mother foreknew that it would take an adventure to draw out what Clara needed from inside in order to heal.
By creating an adventure her daughter would never forget, Marie taught Clara how to tap into the confidence and determination she had within her own soul to overcome the obstacles she faces in life ~ including the loss of her kindred spirit, her mother. She required a different kind of “key” to unlock that unique potential and needed the encouragement from a family outside her of “realm” to show her that.
The importance of family
Lastly, the movie focuses tremendously on the bond of family. While four hearts were dramatically affected by the loss of one, some of them had to be reminded that the four of them were still there and beating. A man lost his wife and three children lost their mother, but they needed each other in order to help fill the hole that had been created. A warm embrace, an understanding smile ~ all are integral ingredients of the healing process.
By spending time with her “extended family” in the four realms, Clara came to realize everything noted above. She learned that each key / each locking mechanism is different, each person is unique and it takes confidence to move forward in overcoming loss ~ together.
Clara knew she would always miss her mother, but she didn’t want to lose another moment with her siblings and father, whom she loved dearly. She had simply lost sight of the place family has in her heart and she needed to be reminded.
Check out these printable coloring pages and activity sheets!
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Would I recommend the movie?
Recreating a time-honored story is difficult, but leave it to Disney to create another visually stunning and emotionally appealing masterpiece. I don’t know that it will earn itself any honors and some critics are already calling it disappointing. However, there is no doubt in my mind that this film will become another seasonal treasure that will find its way onto many annual must-watch lists. So, yes, I would recommend it.
So that you know…
There are a few intense parts with a few dark moments in the Fourth Realm and, yes, mice. There are mice. If you are creeped out by mice, you may have a slightly skirmish moment or two, but it won’t last and you’ll get over it fairly quickly.
For younger children and those with certain sensitivities, there are a few scenes that may be a little frightening or bothersome. They are going through a family loss, so death is a part of the discussion. The Fourth Realm is a little creepy and desolate and the harlequin type characters are rather quirky and a little disturbing at times. Otherwise, the movie is charming and colorful. It draws attention to self-discovery and the finding of one’s place in both family and life.
Like I said, it may not be an award winner, but I plan on watching this every year when Christmas rolls around.
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THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS opens in theatres everywhere on November 2nd!
Have you heard Andrea Bocelli and Matteo Bocelli’s Fall on Me duet for the movie? Click here to watch the music video.
Now on Digital and Blu-ray!!!
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Wonderful piece! Thanks for the review- now I really cannot wait to see this! I absolutely adore Keira Knightly and Morgan Freeman has always been a favorite.
Thanks, Gretchen!! Kiera does a great job in her role and Morgan Freeman is a classic, as always. I hope you enjoy it and I can’t wait to hear what you think of it!!! Be sure to keep me informed 😉.
I really enjoyed your thorough analysis! This reminds me a lot of Alice In Wonderland, which I love, so I definitely will be checking this one out!
Thanks, Dominique!!! I’m glad you liked the review and I really hope you enjoy the movie when you get the chance to see it!!! It’s definitely a great way to start the holiday season.
Great review! I was kind of on the fence wanting to see this. Your review may have just changed my mind! In a good way ha.
Yeah – the critics are kind of mixed on it, but I personally think it was worth the watch with an open mind and fun to find the nods to both the book and ballet. I hope you enjoy it!!!
I love your assessment of the movie! I saw preview the other day, and I was up in the air on if I’d go see it. Now I really want to see it when it comes out!
Oh, good!! Yes, definitely have to go into it not expecting to see the ballet or watch the book play out, but it is a good story and I can definitely see it becoming an annual watch.
Enjoyed your review. Would love to see the movie
Thanks, Janice!! I hope you get the chance to do so. It’s quite charming!
I have to be honest: I skimmed through because I didn’t want any spoilers! We’re going to see it next week, but so far I have LOVED all the clips we’ve seen so far.
No worries! Thanks for being honest 😉. I tried to keep it fairly spoiler-free, but there are a few tidbits in there for sure. It’s definitely worth going to see. There are mixed reviews from critics ~ yes ~ but I definitely enjoyed the movie and plan to watch it annually. Enjoy the movie when you see it!!
I keep hearing about this movie but I still haven’t seen a commercial for it! This is a great post and it really makes me want to see it. It looks so magical and the perfect way to kick off the season!
The commercials did drop off, but the movie came out November 2nd. You’re right, though ~ it is a GREAT way to kick off the holiday season. I hope you enjoy it if you see it.
I really want to see this movie now! Seeing the ballet was a time-honored tradition when I was a kid. We always had a local performance in town, and I loved it every year.
Oh, yay!! I’m glad this encouraged you even more to see it – lol. The story-line is definitely different than the traditional ballet or even the book, but keep an eye out for the symbolism and nods to both.
Great review! I can’t wait to watch it!
Thanks!! I hope you enjoy it when you see it!!
The last version of the Nutcracker I watched was the Barbie version. It was surprisingly good. My now-20-year-old watched it a million times when she was little. I can’t wait to see this one too.
LOL ~ this one is definitely different than the Barbie version. I hope you enjoy it when you get the chance to see it! We enjoyed it 😉.
I’m so looking forward to taking my daughter, Clara, to see this movie this holiday season. Great review! Now I’m even more anxious to see it 🙂
Thanks!! I love your daughter’s name 😉. I hope you two both enjoy the movie!
I’ve been intrigued by the trailers but hadn’t decided if I wanted to see it yet. This makes me feel like it will be worth it.
I think it is. It’s charming, beautifully designed and has a great story. You have to enter with the mindset that you are seeing a new movie and that Disney is famous for re-imagining. There are nods and symbols throughout, though, that point to both the book and ballet. We enjoyed it and will be seeing it each year. It’s very “Christmas.”
We saw this movie last weekend. My daughter and I liked it too. I also expected more out of the Nutcracker character.
Yeah – I was surprised they didn’t add more depth to his character. I’m glad you liked the movie, though! Must have been a fun mother/daughter afternoon!
What a great review! I too was on the fence, but I think it may be worth going to see!
It is definitely worth seeing!!! 😉
I have been so excited to see this! Thank you for the review, because we have been considering taking the kids and this has helped understand what to expect a little more. I foresee it becoming a holiday favorite in our family!
Sweet! I really hope you enjoy watching the movie together! IT is a very charming piece and definitely seasonal. It will get you in the holiday spirit 🎄
Thanks for such a great review! Seems like a great way to kick off the holiday season!
It is!! The movie will definitely put you in the holiday spirit 🎄.
My daughter adores her ballet classes and I can’t wait to take her to see this!
Loved the review! I am excited to see this movie!
I liked your review better than the movie. I love how you broke it all down and am glad that you enjoyed it.
One of the elements I most adore about Disney movies is the message embedded within. I know my girls will appreciate Clara’s journey. I know it’ll be a movie we cherish watching together each holiday season.
Thanks for the review! This movie was not on my list to see. I am now reconsidering adding it to my list.
I think it’s worth it. I just recommend going into it expecting a slightly different story that gives a nod to both the book and ballet. Disney is famous for reimagining. I think they did a good job here and that it will end up being one that becomes an annual watch ~ at least for us. I hope you enjoy it!
I love how in-depth you go in this movie review. I’ve been on the fence about going to see it, but I think you’ve convinced me. Thanks!
Wow! Awesome! First off, thanks for the compliment! Second, I’m glad you were inspired to see it. It’s a good movie ~ maybe not award winning, but it is charming and does relay a great message. I hope you enjoy it when you see it!!
Sounds great, like something I would enjoy! Especially this time of year.
Definitely a seasonal film and a great way to kick off the upcoming holiday season!
Great review! I had no idea Kiera Knightly was in the movie for so long. I’m so excited to see it!
She does a fantastic job in her role!!! I hope you enjoy it!!
It can be really hard to remake a classic but it looks really good in my opinion. I like seeing a twist on oldies. My hubby just went to see the Grinch with the kids and they have no clue about the original but my husband has and still liked it. Will add this to my must see list.
Wouldn’t expect any less from Disney! Thanks for the input, can’t wait to take my daughter.
This is a great review. I will have to see this now. You made it sound so interesting. Loved it.
Great review! I’m looking forward to seeing this!
Thanks!!! I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!!
A great holiday tradition in our houses to enjoy the Nutcracker! Thanks for sharing!
My pleasure! Hope you enjoy the movie!
I am so excited to see this! I love the Nutcracker, but hardly ever get to see it. So excited!
I hope you enjoy it as much as we did! It’s a beautiful and charming piece ~ definitely unique in some of its script, but it pays tribute to both the book and ballet very nicely.