Watch Nutcracker: The Motion Picture

Nutcracker: The Motion Picture is a 1986 film adaptation of the classic Christmas story, The Nutcracker. It follows the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker doll from her godfather Drosselmeyer on Christmas Eve. As Clara falls asleep, the nutcracker comes to life and battles the evil Mouse King with Clara's help. After the battle, the nutcracker transforms into a prince and takes Clara on a magical journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. The film features a star-studded cast, including Hugh Duncan Bigney Mitchell as Drosselmeyer, Vanessa Sharp as Clara, and Patricia Barker as the Sugar Plum Fairy. The film was directed by Carroll Ballard, known for his work on acclaimed films such as The Black Stallion and Fly Away Home. One of the most striking aspects of Nutcracker: The Motion Picture is its use of visuals. The film was shot entirely on a sound stage, giving it a dreamlike quality that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season. The costumes, designed by Willa Kim, are incredibly detailed and colorful, adding to the film's fantastical atmosphere. Another standout feature of the film is its choreography. The dance sequences are elegant and graceful, with each step perfectly calculated to match the music. Barker, in particular, delivers a show-stopping performance as the Sugar Plum Fairy, showcasing her incredible talent as a ballerina. Despite its impressive visuals and choreography, Nutcracker: The Motion Picture is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the film's pacing to be slow, particularly during the Land of Snow sequence. Additionally, some of the film's attempts to add humor to the story fall flat, such as a scene in which the nutcracker dances with a group of vegetables. Overall, Nutcracker: The Motion Picture is a visually stunning adaptation of a beloved holiday classic. Its use of elaborate costumes, intricate choreography, and dreamlike visuals make it stand out from other adaptations of The Nutcracker. While it may not be perfect, it is still a joyous celebration of the holiday season that is sure to delight viewers of all ages.