Keira Knightley Joins Disney's Live Action 'The Nutcracker' As The Sugar Plum Fairy

Given how many live-action sequels and reboots Disney has going at any one time, it can be easy to lose track of it all, but it looks like the live action take on “The Nutcracker” is building steam. It was only this spring that the project was announced, with Lasse Hallstrom tapped to direct, and now the cast is really coming together.

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Variety reports that Keira Knightley has joined the fast growing ensemble as the Sugar Plum Fairy, joining Mackenzie Foy, Misty Copeland and Morgan Freeman in the film. Penned by Ashleigh Powell, the movie will mix elements of both the classic ballet and E.T.A. Hoffmann‘s original story “The Nutcracker and The Mouse King,” telling the story of a young girl whose Nutcracker doll comes to life and takes on the evil, seven-headed Mouse King.

There’s no word on when production might start or a release date, but given that things seem to be moving right along, perhaps this one will be ready for next Christmas?