The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

This past week, Peyton and I had the opportunity to attend a screening of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. I went into it with the expectation that it would follow the traditional Nutcracker with a little twist here and there. Peyton went in expecting to see, well, I’m not really sure what she expected to see but she was eager to see the mice and the music. Those were two things that grabbed her attention.

Within minutes of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms starting you find yourself invested. There is this family, with three children, that are experiencing the holiday season without a mother for the first time. I’m not sure how she passes, I either missed it or they didn’t say, but it sounded like it was from illness. You see a family trying to pull together and have a somewhat happy holiday.

One of the families traditions was going to Clara’s godfather’s estate for a huge Christmas gathering. It looked spectacular. Full or fun, delicious food, dancing, and gift for all the children. But it is here the real story begins.

I am not going to spoil the movie for all those that have been waiting to see this. I know we have been waiting since we saw the trailers last holiday season. But I will tell you this – It’s not The Nutcracker that you’ve seen performed in the ballet or read of in books. It’s a different story, with new villains, fantasy lands and enchanting music.

Now for the bottom line – Is it scary? No, I didn’t think it was and Peyton really enjoyed it. There are a few intense moments but I wouldn’t say scary. Is this going to hold a 3-year-olds attention? Probably not. All children are different but again, there are a few slower spots and if your child is not into sitting still and really investing in the storyline, they may get restless at spots. We had a three-year-old next to us during the screening, for the most part, she did great. But she did get restless and dad took her for quick breaks at least twice during the movie.  However, Peyton was glued to the movie and wanted to know more. She was bummed when it was over because she had so many questions.

If you are looking for a family-friendly movie to take your kids to this holiday season, consider The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. It’s now playing in theaters everywhere.