Suburbia’s Unexpected Combatants

Read Time:4 Minute, 43 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Small Soldiers
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Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
Year Released: 1998
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Joe Dante
Writer(s): Gavin Scott, Adam Rifkin, Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio
Cast: Gregory Smith, Kirsten Dunst, Denis Leary, Phil Hartman, David Cross, Jay Mohr, Kevin Dunn, Ann Magnuson, Wendy Schaal, Jacob Smith, Tommy Lee Jones
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.amazon.com or stream on Max or Prime Video

RAVING REVIEW: While SMALL SOLDIERS may initially seem like a late 90s kids' movie, there’s so much more than meets the eye here! Under the direction of Joe Dante, the film tackles a nuanced tale of toy soldiers turned sentient, blending sharp satire with dynamic action sequences that challenge the conventions of child's play. Ultimately, there’s more to this story than just toys that have come to life.

SMALL SOLDIERS is a film that straddles the line between playful adventure and a more profound, earnest commentary, turning what could be just another 90s nostalgic ride into a critique of the military-industrial complex. At the heart of this suburban saga is young Alan Abernathy (Gregory Smith,) who unsuspectingly starts a clash between two sets of extraordinary action figures: the battle-ready Commando Elites and the peaceful Gorgonites. Along with the help of Christy Fimple (Kirsten Dunst), Alan seeks to put an end to the rampage that has been unleashed.

Crafted with surplus advanced military technology (that’s what trying to cut corners gets you), they are designed to be the most interactive toys ever. However, their programming leads to unforeseen consequences. The Commando Elites, under the steely voice of Chip Hazard, are on a destructive mission, while the Gorgonites, designed to learn and adapt, seek peace and knowledge.

The core of all the troubles started when GloboTech Industries, under CEO Gil Mars (Denis Leary,) turned Heartland Toy Company on its head with visions of transforming playful toys into advanced merchandise to revolutionize the industry. Designers Larry Benson (Jay Mohr) and Irwin Wayfair (David Cross), tasked with this ambitious project, realize too late that their creations may have gone too far. What follows is a spirited conflict that blurs the lines between the toys and the ultimate combat machine, as Dante's narrative explores the darker side of innovation.

The action is driven by the compelling storyline, state-of-the-art animatronics, and CGI that lend a palpable intensity to the toy skirmishes (while certain moments have aged, the film stands up well.) Jerry Goldsmith's heartwarming score complements this, perfectly encapsulating the film's oscillation between whimsy and peril.

Dante’s film is laden with nods and winks, not just to war movies but to broader pop culture. It is a treasure trove for film enthusiasts and a delightful revisit for fans of Dante’s unique storytelling style. SMALL SOLDIERS does more than entertain; it prompts viewers to ponder the implications of taking the easy way out.

The film doesn’t shy away from its dark themes, presenting a stark dichotomy between the aggressive Commando Elites and the curious Gorgonites. This contrast is not just a plot device but a means to explore more profound questions about conflict, the role of technology in our lives, and the ethical boundaries of scientific advancement. I’ve always felt in my heart that so many corners of this world have been left unexplored. I would love a sequel or a horror film set in the same universe; it would make a fantastic animated series with a darker tone or even a current-gen video game. I think there’s a hunger out there to revisit the battle!

SMALL SOLDIERS targets a broad audience, bridging the gap between a children's movie and a thought-provoking action film. It is accessible enough for young viewers yet layered with enough subtext to engage adults. This balance is a testament to Dante's directorial understanding, ensuring the film resonates on multiple levels.

SMALL SOLDIERS is a remarkable film that transcends its era and genre. It combines humor, action, and social commentary, making it a standout piece that speaks to both the child and the critic within us. Reflecting on the technological innovations of the late 1990s, the film captures a moment in cinematic history while offering a critical lens on the narratives we create and consume. Engaging, insightful, and unexpectedly profound, SMALL SOLDIERS remains a significant film that continues to provoke conversation about the intersections of technology, entertainment, and morality.

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[photo courtesy of UNIVERSAL PICTURES, DREAMWORKS PICTURES, AMBLIN ENTERTAINMENT]

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