The Nutcracker and the Four Realms review Written by the Elf and the Hobbit last updated on 7/1/2020 This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
To Know Before You Watch:
Movie: The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Rating: PG
Age Suggestion: 6+
Running Time: 1 Hour and 40 Minutes
Release Date: November 2nd, 2018
Stars: 4 out of 5
Themes: Courage, Knowledge, Family, Hope
Trigger Warnings: This movie has some fairly intense and scary scenes! Be forewarned that some of them do include some truly creepy clowns!! Dealing with parental death plays a key role in this movie as well.
Quick Summary:
Sure to become a timeless holiday classic, this is a beautiful new adaption of the Nutcracker by Disney. The cinematography was beautiful and the acting was outstanding! Mackenzie Foy does an excellent job leading the movie and absolutely keeps up with the ever fabulous Kiera Knightly, Helen Mirren, and Morgan Freeman. With nods to the original story, ballet and even Fantasia- this is an adaption you won’t want to miss. Follow Clara and the Nutcracker on their quest to determine if all you need to save the day is already inside of you.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms Discussion Questions:
1- What was your favorite part of the movie?
2- What was your favorite realm?
3- If you could bring any of your toys to life, which one would you choose?
4- Clara succeeded when she stopped comparing herself to (and trying to be) her sister. Have you ever struggled with thinking that your sibling or friend has qualities that you need?
5- Clara used a lot of science in the movie, it was obvious that it was one of her favorite things to study and share with her brother. What’s your favorite thing to study?
6- Have you ever struggled to believe that you were enough? What helps you find your way when you start to think like that?
7- Sometimes it’s hard to feel lonely, what does Clara discover about being alone?
8- Did you like the mice or are you totally freaked out by them?
9- Who was your favorite character in the realms?
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms Review:
Thoughts from the Elf:
-My goodness this was a beautiful movie! The images were absolutely stunning. Someone I watched with pointed out that switching out the different filming/directing techniques can be a little off putting. But overall I just felt wrapped up in a Disney masterpiece!
-I was so impressed by the acting! Mackenzie Foy and Keira Knightly absolutely shine!! And also- Morgan Freeman so often plays the voice of God/wisdom or the rich old wise guy that I find myself wanting him to actually be my godfather.
-I loved that this was a very unique adaptation but still had nods to the ballet, stories, and even Fantasia! However, while the music was just as stunning and beautiful as the cinematography, I really wish that the music from the ballet was more overtly present in the movie.
-I’m quite sure that we will be watching this movie for years during the holiday season!
-I absolutely loved that there were female leads and that there was diversity in the cast! That along with the great messages of the movie were done well and not obnoxiously.
-Indiana Jones reference here, why is it always the creepy clowns??
If you enjoyed The Nutcracker and the Four Realms review, check out our other posts:
-Family Friendly Streaming Suggestions for Disney+
–The Star: See the manger story from the perspective of Bo the Donkey.
–The Grinch: This 2018 remake is great take on the Dr. Seuss classic
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