As much as I love The Nutcracker and Maurice Sendak, this production is my least favorite version. The dancing is fine, but the story has taken an odd turn and they have Drosselmeier portrayed as a jealous pedophile and groomer of his god-daughter. No wonder Clara is afraid of him, as she states repeatedly in the narration. Towards the end it even seems like he and the Nutcracker Prince are fighting over her. Super creepy!
If you want a good basic Nutcracker movie watch the Baryshnikov one. It may just be a filming of a stage show (which, technically this one also is), but it at least won't leave you cringing. And the dancing is exquisite.
If you want a good basic Nutcracker movie watch the Baryshnikov one. It may just be a filming of a stage show (which, technically this one also is), but it at least won't leave you cringing. And the dancing is exquisite.