The story is set in the fictional Oakton City and follows Surly (voiced by Will Arnett), a self-centered and independent purple squirrel. Surly inadvertently ruins the winter food supply for the park’s animals, and as a result, he is banished from the park by the animals’ leader, Raccoon (voiced by Liam Neeson).
To make amends and survive the winter, Surly hatches a plan to rob Maury’s Nut Store, a nut shop that is a front for a group of bank robbers planning their own heist. While executing the heist, Surly encounters Andie (voiced by Katherine Heigl), a compassionate and optimistic squirrel, and together they uncover the criminals’ plot.
The film combines slapstick humor and action as Surly, Andie, and their animal friends work to stop the bank robbers and save the park. The story explores themes of teamwork, redemption, and the value of friendship.
In the climax, Surly and his friends confront the criminals in a chaotic and humorous sequence. The resolution involves the animals reclaiming their winter food supply and Surly earning the respect of the park’s residents.
“The Nut Job” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its animation and humor but criticism for its plot and character development. Despite the mixed reception, the film was successful at the box office, leading to the release of a sequel, “The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature,” in 2017.