The original storybook was titled "The Nutcracker and The Mouse King." Several adaptations have been made including Tchaikovsky's ballet called "The Nutcracker."
However, “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is a reinvented movie that is loosely based on the traditional ballet story.
The movie starts with the death of Clara’s mother who gives her a gift that requires a missing key to open. Eventually, Clara finds herself on an adventure as she tries to find the key.
Throughout the movie, a recurrent message that “everything you need is inside” suggests self-sufficiency and empowerment. It promotes a can-do attitude that a person can be the master of his own destiny.
The story line is a typical Disney rendition with special effects and a twist somewhere along the way. The high budget movie is a feast for the eyes with impeccable costumes and production sets. That is actually what makes the movie interesting.
The ballet performance is also meaningful for viewers who love classical dance.
The story ends with a father and daughter coming to terms with the mother’s demise. The end scene teaches the importance of family and taking care of those still present in one’s life.
My rating for this movie is 3 stars.
