A couple of weeks ago I was told by a couple of people that Disney’s big Christmas release, “Nutcracker and the Four Realms,” was a total disaster. I admit to hesitating on reporting this news. The director, Lasse Hallstrom, is one of my favorites, and I felt bad about the situation. Look at his movies: The Cider House Rules, Chocolat, My Life as a Dog, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, plus some gems like Hoax, Casanova, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.
Now this afternoon Variety reports that the final cut will have two directors’ names– Hallstrom, and Joe Johnston. Lasse evidently turned in his version, Johnston was brought in for extensive reshoots. For maybe the first time ever, two separate directors will have their name on the opening card. Hallstrom will be first, followed by Johnston.
From what I hear, though, only Alan Smithee should be listed– that’s the name directors use when they want their name off a movie.
Even though Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren, Morgan Freeman, and Mackenzie Foy are featured, the movie is evidently not salvageable. What’s crazy, too, is that screenwriter Simon Beaufoy– who is always good– he won the Oscar for “Slumdog Millionaire”– composed the script. Lasse Hallstrom, Simon Beaufoy– what could go wrong, right? That’s A plus list talent!
Disney has made so much money this year already with Marvel and LucasFilms, and Pixar, they won’t notice this debacle. But it’s coming on November 2nd.
