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How much do you know about the story behind Disney's magical new film?

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms takes the legendary story to magical new heights

Monday 19 November 2018 12:14 GMT
The story behind The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

For the big screen interpretation of The Nutcracker, Disney has lent its characteristically magical touch to create a film that is delightfully enchanting. In The Nutcracker and The Four Realms, a glittering cast of A-list talent comes together in a cacophony of bright colours, brilliant costumes, and imaginative new dimensions, retelling the legendary tale in a way audiences have never before seen.

Mackenzie Foy is Clara, a science-obsessed adventurer struggling to cope with the death of her mother. She embarks on a mesmerising journey after her Godfather, Drosselmeyer – played by the one and only Morgan Freeman – delivers a mysterious gift from her late mother. On her adventure, she encounters the Sugar Plum Fairy (Keira Knightley), Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren) and Shiver (Richard E Grant), as well as a host of otherworldly characters who bring the story to life.

But it’s not just the acting credentials in the film that’ll have you enamoured. New elements to the fabled tale mean even those who know the original plot inside out will be met with some surprises.

“The story has changed a lot throughout the course of history,” noted Lasse Hallström, one of the film’s directors. “The ballet is unique with each staging, evolving within the minds of those creating it – and we’ve done the same thing; we’re adding to the story.”

Ballet fans don’t need to be disappointed either: a stunning performance from Misty Copeland, a principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre, is a spellbinding touch to an already magical movie. It's a wonderful film to watch during the Christmas festivities

For what you need to know before you make your cinema trip, watch the video above…

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is in cinemas now

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