Le Prince Casse-noisette

Okay, even I'll admit that this is not one of the most spectacular animated films even made, but that doesn't take away from how much I love it. The characters are lovable and interesting, even Clara's family keeps our attention. This movie is a wonderful holiday film for all ages, filled with humor, adventure, and a little romance. It was about time the Nutcracker had a back story and a name. And for once he wasn't ten years older than Clara with a beard and cape (a cape that's always there when he's a nutcracker yet rarely there when he comes to life). I enjoyed how Uncle Drosselmeier's story was presented in a more comical style of animation. And it ends the way all children (especially little girls) always wanted it to end.

I wouldn't say it's absolutely perfect but it tells the nutcracker story well and the animation is really beautiful. I remember I legit thought it was a Disney movie by the animation.

It's a nice wholesome film and I'd recommend watching it on a cozy Christmas, especially if you have kids.

The movie is worth seeing simply for the music. Tchaikovsky composed some of the most beautiful pieces I've ever heard. The use of the music in this animated film is gloriously woven into the storyline. The story is captivating with delightful characters. A great film to introduce children to joys of Tchaikovsky's music.

Wow, this is great. I can't believe that so many official movie critics disliked this film. It is amazing, will work for everyone as a family movie. It doesn't have the bordom involved with watching the same ballet every year, that would turn kids off to this classic story. The movie deserves more recondition, more praise, anything to help get the word out of how good it is.

The Nutcracker Prince was the first (and last) big-screen movie that was helmed by Kevin Gillis and Sheldon Wiseman, the creators of the cartoon series The Raccoons. Along with big names like Megan Follows, Kiefer Sutherland and Peter O'Toole, it also featured many of the voice talents of The Raccoons, such as Len Carlson, Susan Roman, Liz Hanna, Noam Zylberman and Keith Hampshire (who sadly passed away in 2000). Unfortunately, it didn't become the box office success everyone hoped for, and it flopped. This is a shame, because The Nutcracker Prince is a movie that should be seen. It wasn't just a good opportunity for the animators to show their talents, but it was also a triumph of Canadian moviemaking. The music of Tchaikovsky was put to very good use here, and the song "I'll Always Come Back To You" should have been nominated for a Genie (Canada's version of the Oscar) for Best Song.

If you can find a copy of it on video (it's hard to find nowadays), see it. You won't be disappointed.

Rating: ***