Small Soldiers (1998) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Small Soldiers (1998) is a unique blend of action, comedy, and science fiction directed by Joe Dante. Known for its inventive premise and impressive visual effects, the film delves into the world of action figures that come to life and wreak havoc in a suburban town. Starring Kirsten Dunst, Gregory Smith, and a memorable voice cast including Tommy Lee Jones and Phil Hartman, Small Soldiers combines family-friendly entertainment with a satirical edge.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, performances, and where you can stream or purchase Small Soldiers online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Toy Soldiers Go to War
Small Soldiers centers around a toy company that develops a new line of action figures equipped with advanced military technology. The toys, which include the Commando Elite and the Gorgonites, are designed to be more than just playthings—they come with sophisticated artificial intelligence and military programming.
When a shipment of these toys arrives at a local toy store, the Commando Elite, led by the ruthless Chip Hazard (voiced by Tommy Lee Jones), begins to exhibit hostile behavior. The toys’ programming turns them into a menacing force, leading to a chaotic battle between the Commando Elite and their rivals, the Gorgonites, who are more peace-loving but are also caught in the crossfire.
As the toys come to life and cause chaos in the neighborhood, a group of teenagers, including Alan (Gregory Smith) and his sister Christy (Kirsten Dunst), find themselves in the midst of the conflict. The film explores how the toys’ war spills over into their lives, leading to a mix of action, comedy, and family drama.
Performances: A Star-Studded Cast Brings Toys to Life
The film boasts a talented cast that includes both live-action actors and voice performers.
- Tommy Lee Jones voices Chip Hazard, the leader of the Commando Elite. Jones’s performance brings a commanding and intimidating presence to the character, adding a sense of menace to the action figure’s otherwise comical demeanor.
- Phil Hartman plays the toy store owner, and his comedic timing adds a layer of humor to the film. Hartman’s performance provides a nice balance to the more intense moments, contributing to the film’s overall lighthearted tone.
- Kirsten Dunst and Gregory Smith play the teenage leads who find themselves caught up in the toy war. Their performances are engaging and relatable, providing a human touch to the fantastical elements of the story.
- The voice cast of the toys includes notable actors such as Frank Langella as the Gorgonite leader Archer, and Jim Brown as the Commando Elite’s Sergeant Major Chip Hazard. The vocal performances add depth and personality to the toys, making their conflicts and interactions more compelling.
Themes: The Consequences of Technology and the Nature of War
Small Soldiers explores several themes, including the impact of technology and the nature of war. The film satirizes the commercialization of war and the way technology can transform harmless objects into instruments of conflict.
The toys’ transformation from benign playthings to dangerous weapons serves as a commentary on how technology can be misused. The film also delves into the concept of programmed conflict, highlighting how even toys, when given advanced capabilities, can replicate the behaviors and conflicts of their human creators.
Additionally, the contrast between the Commando Elite and the Gorgonites reflects deeper themes of conflict and coexistence. While the Commando Elite are programmed to be aggressive and warlike, the Gorgonites are portrayed as peaceful and intellectual. The clash between these two factions underscores the film’s commentary on the nature of war and the potential for understanding and reconciliation.
Direction and Visuals: A Blend of Action and Fantasy
Director Joe Dante, known for his work on films like Gremlins and The Howling, brings his signature style to Small Soldiers. The film combines practical effects with CGI to create a visually dynamic experience. The action sequences, while intended for a family audience, are engaging and imaginative, showcasing the toys in a variety of creative scenarios.
The visual effects of the film were groundbreaking at the time, blending animatronics with CGI to bring the action figures to life. The contrast between the toys’ exaggerated features and the real-world setting adds to the film’s charm and humor.
Dante’s direction ensures that the film maintains a playful yet thrilling tone, balancing comedic elements with action-packed sequences. The result is a movie that appeals to both children and adults, offering a mix of humor, excitement, and thought-provoking themes.
Where to Watch Small Soldiers Online
If you’re interested in watching Small Soldiers, you have several options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Streaming Services:
- Disney+: As a film produced by Amblin Entertainment and distributed by Disney, Small Soldiers is available for streaming on Disney+. A subscription to Disney+ allows you to watch the film in HD with additional features and content from Disney’s extensive library.
- Hulu (with Starz Add-On): Small Soldiers can also be found on Hulu if you have the Starz add-on. This option allows you to stream the film along with other Starz content.
2. Rental Services:
For those who prefer to rent the film, several platforms offer it for a one-time rental fee:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent Small Soldiers for $3.99 in HD, with 48 hours to watch after you start streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental at $3.99, allowing you to stream the film on a variety of devices.
- Apple TV: Rent the movie for $3.99 in HD, with the option to watch on all Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers the film for rent at $3.99, compatible with most streaming devices and smart TVs.
3. Purchase Options:
For those who want to own a copy of the film, it is available for purchase on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase Small Soldiers for $14.99 in HD, available in your digital library.
- Apple TV: The film is available for purchase at $14.99, allowing for offline viewing on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase the film for $14.99, with access across multiple devices.
- Vudu: Purchase Small Soldiers for $14.99, available for streaming on various platforms.
Final Thoughts: A Fun and Imaginative Family Film
Small Soldiers is a delightful family film that combines action, comedy, and science fiction with a satirical edge. With its imaginative premise, engaging performances, and impressive visual effects, the film offers an entertaining experience for viewers of all ages. Louis de Funès’s comedic brilliance and the film’s charming humor make it a timeless piece of cinematic entertainment.
Whether you’re streaming on Disney+ or renting on Amazon Prime Video, Small Soldiers provides a fun and engaging watch that showcases the creativity and humor of 1990s cinema.
From streaming on Disney+ to renting on Google Play, Small Soldiers is a classic example of imaginative family entertainment. Its blend of action, comedy, and fantasy makes it a film worth revisiting for fans of 90s cinema and anyone looking for a lighthearted, fun movie experience.
