WILMINGTON, Ohio (WCMH) — The landscape of rural Ohio is the backdrop for a new heartfelt holiday film that brings the star power of some of the biggest names in Hollywood together with four talented brothers who call the Buckeye State home.
The new comedy, “Nutcrackers,” described by director David Gordon Green as an effort to “make a movie without viciousness or cynicism or expectation,” stars Ben Stiller and Linda Cardellini. The film showcases the joys and challenges of unexpected family dynamics. The script, written by Leland Douglas is based on “timeless themes” and is brought to life by Green’s unique vision and a talented ensemble cast.
“I have two sons of my own, and as I share my cinematic enthusiasm with them, we often return to films that inspired me at their age,” said Green in a director’s statement. “Classics like ‘Stand by Me,’ ‘Overboard’ and ‘The Bad News Bears,’ and then lost treasures like ‘Six Pack’ and ‘Kidco;’ movies where kids weren’t quite so polished. There was a rawness and a realness to them that makes them as charming today as they were upon release.”
“NUTCRACKERS” (Photo Credit/Nutcracker Productions LLC) “NUTCRACKERS” -Nutcrackers is a heartfelt comedy which follows strait-laced and work obsessed Mike (Stiller) as he is suddenly thrust into being a caregiver for his rambunctious, orphaned nephews. (Disney/Ryan Green)
LINDA CARDELLINI“NUTCRACKERS” (Photo Credit/Nutcracker Productions LLC | Hulu) “NUTCRACKERS” (Photo Credit/Nutcracker Productions LLC | Hulu)
“Nutcrackers” tells the story of Stiller’s character, Mike, who suddenly has to care for his four lively, orphaned nephews — an awkward position for the uptight, career-driven uncle. The roles of these energetic brothers are portrayed by first-time actors and real-life siblings Homer, Ulysses, Arlo and Atlas Janson, who live on the farm where much of the movie was filmed.
Green’s connection to the children’s mother, a former film school classmate and “lifelong friend,” provided a unique and personal element to the film’s creation. This bond, combined with the local settings, such as the Janson family farm, a Wilmington dance studio and the historic Murphy Theater, add to the authenticity and warmth of the production.
The inspiration for “Nutcrackers” came while Green was visiting the Janson family in rural Ohio. “Life on their farm felt timeless,” he said, recounting how the boys’ natural charisma and the community’s welcoming atmosphere inspired him to create a story that captured the unvarnished joy and chaos of childhood.
Filming on location allowed Green and his team to embrace the real textures of Ohio life, from its scenic countryside to the tight-knit spirit of Wilmington’s residents.
“Bringing a movie star to this small town in Ohio was exciting,” Green shared. “Ben became a true inspiration and a role model for all of us as he rolled up his sleeves with a cast of mostly non-actors. … Smiles burnt into the face of our small crew as the chemistry of the kids facing off with a Hollywood icon came to life.”
The 104-minute movie, which had its Ohio premiere on Oct. 16 at the Murphy Theater, is set to release on Nov. 29, streaming exclusively on Hulu. Actors Edi Patterson, Tim Heidecker and Toby Huss round out the cast.
