Disney's upcoming live-action adaptation of "The Nutcracker" is assembling an impressive cast, and the latest reported addition is quite sweet.

According to Variety, Keira Knightley is poised to join the ensemble, where she will play the Sugar Plum Fairy. She'll join the previously announced cast of Mackenzie Foy (who plays young protagonist Clara), Misty Copeland (as the lead ballerina, starring in the film's only dance sequence), and Morgan Freeman (playing Drosselmeyer, the mysterious uncle figure who gives Clara the titular toy, which later comes to life and leads Clara on a magical adventure).

As previously reported, this version of "The Nutcracker" -- officially titled "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms" -- isn't based on the beloved Tchaikovsky ballet, but is rather a more direct adaptation of the novel that inspired it, "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King." Since there's only one dance sequence, it seems that the classic "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" won't make the cut, though perhaps director Lasse Hallstrom will opt to at least use the familiar music in the background.

With such a starry ensemble already, we imagine Disney will continue to fill the film's ranks with high-profile stars. Stay tuned for additional casting announcements.

"The Nutcracker and the Four Realms" is slated to start production later this year. There's no release date yet.

[via: Variety]

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