Nutcrackers, starring Ben Stiller and Linda Cardellini, has finally arrived for audiences to enjoy. From the moment I saw the trailer, I couldn’t help but be reminded of one of my childhood favourites, the Bollywood film Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic. The parallels between the two films became even more apparent after watching Nutcrackers. Both centre around the tragic loss of parents, four orphaned siblings navigating life, and an initially reluctant guardian who eventually bonds with the mischievous children.

When I first watched Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic as a child, it felt magical—an instant classic in my young eyes. Rewatching it as an adult, I realise it’s not as flawless as I once thought. While charming in parts, it’s a decent film at best, with noticeable shortcomings that my childhood enthusiasm overlooked. The same could be said for Nutcrackers.

The film exudes heartfelt sincerity but stumbles in its execution. Its humour feels lacklustre, failing to bring the sharp wit one might expect from a Ben Stiller-led project. The plot, though heartfelt, is painfully predictable, following a formulaic trajectory that makes its twists and turns easy to anticipate. As a holiday film, it’s neither particularly festive nor groundbreaking, landing squarely in the realm of mid-tier entertainment.

That being said, Nutcrackers is not without its merits. Stiller and Cardellini deliver compelling performances, bringing warmth and relatability to their roles. The dynamic between the children and their reluctant caretaker has its endearing moments, tugging gently at the heartstrings. It’s these emotional beats that salvage the film, offering glimpses of genuine connection and growth amidst its otherwise ordinary narrative.

All in all, Nutcrackers isn’t a cinematic masterpiece, but it’s far from being a bad movie. Much like Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and delivers enough charm to keep you engaged, even if it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. If you approach the film with tempered expectations, you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised. It’s a simple, heartfelt story that, while flawed, reminds us of the importance of family, love, and a little holiday magic.

P.S. My Letterboxd handle is @BhumikGrover.