After years of watching Ben Stiller shine both in front and behind the camera, I must say his return to acting in “Nutcrackers” was a delightful surprise. It’s like he hasn’t missed a beat when it comes to portraying high-strung characters that make us laugh until our sides ache.
Over the past few years, Ben Stiller has shifted his career path significantly. Previously known as one of Hollywood’s top comedic actors, it’s been four years since he last starred in a major film (2017’s “Brad’s Status”). Instead, he’s been concentrating on directorial and producing roles, such as the shows “Escape At Dannemora” on Showtime and “Severance” on AppleTV+. However, after almost a decade of taking a break from acting, Stiller is now returning to the spotlight, playing the lead in “Nutcrackers,” directed by David Gordon Green, which debuted this week at the Toronto International Film Festival.
It’s a welcomed return. The actor has a special knack for playing high-strung characters who regularly reach comedic levels of frustration, and the movie most definitely uses opportunities to exercise that particular skill of his. While that particular bit of the familiar is fun, however, it’s part of a film that is otherwise overly familiar, as it plays out a story that audiences have seen many, many times, and you can predict the vast majority of what’s going to happen before the end of the first 10 minutes.
As a devoted admirer, allow me to share my take on the movie “Nutcrackers” penned by Leland Douglas: In this captivating tale, I, a meticulous businessman based in Chicago’s bustling real estate scene, find myself journeying to the serene landscapes of rural Ohio. The trip was initially planned to sign some legal documents that would place my four beloved nephews – Homer Janson, Ulysses Janson, Atlas Janson, and Arlo Janson – into a foster home, following the tragic demise of my estranged sister and brother-in-law. However, an unforeseen hiccup in my background check leaves me unexpectedly responsible for their care.
Michael is shocked to discover that the four Kicklighter boys lead virtually wild lives, causing constant turmoil and living in a home that is disorganized and filled with animals. The main character decides to seek out a new home for them so he can re-engage in business matters in Chicago that have been ongoing without him. However, the longer he interacts with the children, the more affectionate he becomes towards them.
From my perspective as an enthusiast, the plot in Nutcrackers might seem enigmatic at first glance, yet I’m confident it leaves a clear trail for you to follow in the movie. Let me clarify that there are no shocking surprises or unexpected turns that could catch you off guard. The film does boast some quirks, predominantly centered around the peculiar lifestyle of the Kicklighters and their array of domestic animals (cats, dogs, chickens, peacocks, pigs, snakes, and more). However, these eccentricities serve as delightful seasoning to an otherwise ordinary storyline.
At Michael’s and the boys’ Christmas party, they visit Toby Huss, a wealthy neighbor, hoping to persuade him and his wife to consider adoption. However, their plans don’t lead to any unexpected outcomes. Meanwhile, there’s an unusual foster mother (Edi Patterson) who desires the boys to join her family, but this storyline also fizzles out without any twists.
The movie titled “Nutcrackers” lacks grand ambitions or remarkable creativity, yet it maintains a genuine warmth without becoming overly sentimental or overly sweet. A notable instance is when Michael and his brothers visit Michael’s sister’s ballet studio, leading to the idea of staging a fresh adaptation of “The Nutcracker.” This event gives the film its title. While it may not induce uncontrollable laughter, neither will it provoke eye-rolling. It’s important to note that this shift in tone marks a significant departure from David Gordon Green, who has been known for his work on the recent “Halloween” trilogy and “Exorcist: Believer.
The movie titled “Nutcrackers” is quite pleasant to watch, however it lacks the lasting impact that one might expect. Despite not having a distribution plan established just yet, it seems like a film that families may consider watching as an alternative choice while searching for new entertainment options during the holiday season, amidst multiple viewings of traditional favorites such as “It’s A Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Story”. Although it will likely be appreciated, it is unlikely to become a regular part of anyone’s annual traditions.
Keep an eye out here at TopMob in the upcoming days as we continue to provide exclusive, on-site coverage of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. Additionally, you can get a sneak peek at all the films coming up until the end of the year by checking out our 2024 Movie Release Calendar.
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2024-09-06 23:37