Disney's The Nutcracker And The Four Realms Trailer Is Truly Magical

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is Disney's lavish live-action adaptation of the classic 19th century fairytale, and the first trailer has arrived. The movie stars Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren, and Morgan Freeman, with Mackenzie Foy in the lead role as Clara, a young girl who is pulled into a mysterious, magical world on Christmas Eve. Check it out above.

The film is directed by Lasse Hallstrom, who previously helmed A Dog's Purpose, Chocolat, and The Cider House Rules. Knightley plays the Sugar Plum Fairy, with Mirren as Mother Ginger, and Freeman as Clara's godfather. The original story, The Nutcracker And The Mouse King, was written by E.T.A. Hoffmann in 1816, but the story of Nutcracker is best known via Tchaikovsky's ballet version later that century.

The movie isn't actually set to hits theaters until November 2 next year. Last week, it was reported that the film was to undergo reshoots early next year, without Hallstrom's involvement. Joe Johnston (Captain America: The First Avenger, Jurassic Park 3) is to helm the reshoots, although a statement from Hallstrom stated that it was purely down to scheduling, and that he would continue to be involved with the film's post-production.

In related news, last month it was reported that Chinese star Liu Yifei will play the title role in Disney's upcoming live action remake of Mulan. The studio has a variety of classic fairytale remakes in works, with new versions of The Lion King and Aladdin expected in 2019, plus Dumbo, Pinocchio, and The Jungle Book 2 further down the line.