Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that The Nutcracker Prince is a 1990 adaptation of the ETA Hoffman story "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King." One of the bigger concerns for parents is the overall scariness of the Mouse King. His voice and general behavior seems tailor-made to give nightmares to younger kids. For parents expecting more songs and ballet, this scariness coupled with the battle scenes between the Nutcracker's army and the Mouse King's will be off-putting. There are other moments of mild cartoon violence throughout, but on the whole, this version of the Nutcracker features songs, dancing, and forays into magical realism. It isn't the best introduction to The Nutcracker, but for fans especially, it's an interesting version.

Sexual Content

Not applicable.

Violence

The voice and behavior of the Mouse King could be too scary for younger or more sensitive viewers. A girl is knocked unconscious after she slips and bumps her head on a grandfather clock. At different times, characters are ordered to be decapitated. An executioner wields a large sword. Throughout the movie, the Nutcracker's army does battle with the Mouse King's army, fighting with toy weapons.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

As an animated adaptation of ETA Hoffman's "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," this movie focuses on the battle between the Nutcracker and his army versus the Mouse King and his army, and the dream realities imagined by the toymaker Drosselmeier and young Clara.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

There are glasses of wine on the table of a royal feast, but they are not consumed by any of the characters.