Mary's (Elle Fanning) seemingly dull Christmas is suddenly filled with excitement and adventure following the arrival of her Albert Einstein (Nathan Lane), who gives her a Nutcracker as a gift. Later that night, Mary dreams that the Nutcracker – called N.C. (Charlie Rowe) – comes to life and takes her on a wondrous journey. They discover that the Nazi-like Rat King (John Turturro) has usurped the Nutcracker's kingdom.