Rural Ohio serves as the setting for Nutcrackers, a heartfelt holiday comedy blending Hollywood star power with the talents of four real-life brothers who call the Buckeye State home.
The film, directed by David Gordon Green, stars Ben Stiller and Linda Cardellini and explores the joys and challenges of unexpected family dynamics. Written by Leland Douglas, the script tackles “timeless themes” with Green’s signature touch and a dynamic 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,” Green said in a statement, citing classics like Stand by Me and The Bad News Bears, as well as lesser-known titles such as 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 follows Stiller’s character, Mike, an uptight, career-driven uncle who finds himself suddenly caring for his four lively, orphaned nephews. The roles of the energetic brothers are played by Homer, Ulysses, Arlo, and Atlas Janson, first-time actors and real-life siblings 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—helped shape the film’s personal tone. Local landmarks, including the Janson family farm, a Wilmington dance studio, and the historic Murphy Theatre, add to the authenticity and warmth of the production.
The inspiration for Nutcrackers struck while Green was visiting the Janson family in rural Ohio. “Life on their farm felt timeless,” he said. The boys’ natural charisma and the community’s welcoming spirit inspired Green to craft a story capturing the unvarnished joy and chaos of childhood. Filming on location allowed the team to embrace the rich textures of Ohio life, from its scenic countryside to Wilmington’s tight-knit community.
“Bringing a movie star to this small town in Ohio was exciting,” Green said. “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 film premiered Oct. 16 at the Murphy Theatre in Ohio and will stream exclusively on Hulu starting Nov. 29. The cast also includes Edi Patterson, Tim Heidecker, and Toby Huss.