The White House has released its annual Christmas film, this year featuring a unique tap dance performance of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” by New York City’s Dorrance Dancing. However, the film has sparked varied reactions on social media, with some viewers finding the “Hunger Games” aesthetic of the presentation unappealing.
In a recent article by the New York Post, First Lady Jill Biden shared the 2.5-minute film showcasing the ensemble’s creative interpretation of the classic piece, with arrangements by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. The video highlights dancers in sequined costumes and elaborate headdresses, performing in a festively decorated White House, complete with Nutcracker-themed decorations and brightly lit Christmas trees.
While the First Lady described the film as embodying “magic, wonder, and joy,” some viewers expressed confusion and dissatisfaction with its artistic direction, comparing it unfavorably to former First Lady Melania Trump’s 2020 Christmas film, which was more traditional and patriotic in theme.
Critics on social media described the film as “tacky” and “tasteless,” with one commenter unfavorably comparing it to Melania Trump’s film, which they found more aesthetically pleasing and seasonally appropriate. Others drew parallels between the film’s colorful imagery and dystopian movie scenes, with one user humorously likening it to “Disney presents Clockwork Orange”, one person commented.