When you hear the title *Nutcrackers* and see Ben Stiller's name on the poster, you might expect a heartwarming Christmas comedy or at least a lighthearted holiday romp during the weekend. Unfortunately, what we got was an uninspired, somber film that's as much a slog as walking in a snowstorm with slush-filled boots.
The plot revolves around Mike (Ben Stiller), a workaholic real estate agent whose life is upended when he's forced to care for his four nephews after their parents' tragic death. While this premise could have been the foundation for an emotionally resonant or even darkly comedic story, the execution falls flat. The movie moves awkwardly between melancholic drama and half-hearted attempts at humor, never fully committing to either.
The biggest problem is the film's marketing. *Nutcrackers* is sold as a Christmas comedy, but it's neither festive nor funny. The somber tone feels wildly at odds with the title and promotional material, leaving viewers baffled. It's like unwrapping a gift you thought was a fun video game, only to find dull grey socks.
The child actors, playing Mike's unruly nephews, deliver wooden performances. Their characters are obnoxious and unsympathetic, making it difficult to root for the family's supposed bonding journey. Stiller, once a comedic powerhouse, seems to have lost the spark that made him so captivating in classics like *Meet the Parents* or *Night at the Museum*. His portrayal of Mike lacks charm, wit, or energy and he appears disinterested, coasting through the film with an air of fatigue. Seriously, what happened to you, Ben?
Director David Gordon Green, known for his work in horror recent horror movies like *Halloween*, seems out of his depth here. His attempt at comedy is a misfire, failing to land any meaningful laughs or heartwarming moments. It's as if he's trying to force the wrong puzzle pieces together, leaving a jagged, unsatisfying mess.
*Nutcrackers* is neither entertaining nor emotionally moving. It's a depressing misfire that fails to live up to its potential or the holiday spirit. Unless you're a Stiller completist, I don't recommend this one. This won't be remembered as a Christmas classic.
