The Nut Job
Performance & Direction: The Nut Job Review
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Nut Job (2014) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Animation.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Animation is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Nut Job features a noteworthy lineup led by Will Arnett . Supported by the likes of Brendan Fraser and Liam Neeson , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Nut Job
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2014, The Nut Job is a Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure film directed by Peter Lepeniotis. The narrative combines stunning visual artistry with storytelling that appeals to all ages. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Will Arnett.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Surly, a curmudgeon, independent squirrel is banished from his park and forced to survive in the city. Lucky for him, he stumbles on the one thing that may be able to save his life, and the rest of park community, as they gear up for winter - Maury's Nut Store. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: The Nut Job
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Peter Lepeniotis, The Nut Job attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to animation resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Will Arnett, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the animation themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Nut Job reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Nut Job?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Animation films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: The Nut Job
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $42.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $120.9M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Nut Job Budget
The estimated production budget for The Nut Job is $42.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: The Nut Job
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Where to Watch The Nut Job Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Google Play MoviesYouTubeThe Nut Job Parents Guide & Age Rating
2014 AdvisoryWondering about The Nut Job age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Nut Job is 85 minutes (1h 25m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, The Nut Job is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2014 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Nut Job worth watching?
The Nut Job is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Animation movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Nut Job parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Nut Job identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Nut Job?
The total duration of The Nut Job is 85 minutes, which is approximately 1h 25m long.
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Critic Reviews for The Nut Job
Horrible watch, won't watch again, and can't recommend, even for younger audiences. I have no idea how this thing got a sequel. It's supposed to be two parallel mob heist stories, but they don't really line up past there being a heist. None of the characters are interesting or likeable, maybe the girl squirrel, the dog, and the mute rat but that's more because they are lovable stupid / naive. You're not supposed to still dislike the "heroes" at the end of the movie. The writing parts of this that are remotely interesting are too complex for kids to get and they don't pan out. It's literally a lot of "squirrels like nuts", "squirrels try to get nuts", "humans don't like squirrels", repeat. Anything endearing about this is more annoying. Even when the "twists" happen, they don't mean anything because they're all still jerks, even if they happened to do the right thing.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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