Holiday movies are as big a part of the season as gifts and get-togethers. They visit our homes the same time every year providing laughs and memories to a season of family and friends, warmth and good cheer. With familiar plot-lines and the prerequisite happy ending, they are a welcome addition to our holiday festivities. This year Director Andrey Konchalovskiy adds The Nutracker to the growing list of holiday fare.
Featuring the melodies and music of the world renowned Tchiakovsky ballet, “The Nutcracker in 3D” has the makings of a time honored classic. The movie. set in 1920’s Vienna follows the story of Mary, played beautifully by Elle Fanning, an imaginative young girl who receives the doll as a gift from her favorite uncle Albert (Nathan Lane) who encourages her to dream despite her stern Father’s misgivings. The doll eventually comes to life and an adventure ensues. Though marketed as a jolly Christmas story there is a darkness to this adaptation. The rat king for instance often reveals a monstrous appearance that may be too much to handle for smaller children. Also though the novel idea of a doll coming to life may be appealing the talking nutcracker also has a hint of creepiness that cannot be ignored. The 3d effects are far and few between but are amazing in their own right as ornaments appear to be right before your eyes and snow seems to dance from the ceiling at times.
As far as Christmas movies go it is an interesting and at times enjoyable film. Konchalovskiy’s take on the holiday film is reminiscent of Harry Potter, as so much of the movie is dark and sinister. The one thing that adds light to this tale is the singing. Characters seem to burst into song at random intervals during the movie providing a much needed break from the heavy subject matter and imagery. Though young children are often bombarded by violent images and are familiar with monsters they may not be ready for this film. Interesting and full of imagination this is a good film for tweens, teens and the young at heart.
Movie Trailer
