This is a very interesting neo-classic version of the ballet.. Well danced and underrated. The concept is cohesive though not following the ordinary themes. The ballet uses a more serious and almost dark subtext to portray the story as opposed to the usual fairy tale interpretation. There is a definite "good verses evil" narrative and there are many sub-textual sexual undertones. The original tale was actually a somewhat macabre short story and very dark in tone. It was turned into something quite different later in the history of the story and ballet. In America it has become a traditional Christmas entertainment and is often sugary in its treatment. Some versions however simply treat the ballet as a colorful and light divertisement for all who view it. Nutctaker: The Motion Picture is a version subject to endless conversation if one reads between the lines and wants to. It certainly is not to be overlooked as a dance movie. The director, Carrol Ballard was chosen because of previous movies with little dialog and as everyone knows ballet is a speechless art form which depends on a linear and physical basis. The influence of Maurice Sendak can not be ignored. It is his ballet.