Unfortunately, I missed Small Soldiers in it's theatrical run. I was aware that it was Phil hartman's last movie but wasn't aware it was a Joe Dante film. I am a huge fan of Dante and his characteristic in-jokes.
This wasn't as good as the "Gremlins" movies or "The 'burbs" but was very entertaining. My kids loved as did I and I think we liked it for different reasons. As a film buff I always get a huge kick out of the in-jokes and references (often leaving my wife wondering what's cracking me up).
The script is admittedly a little weak and at times dark...but not every "kids movie" has to be fluffy happy Disney dreck.
As for the comment that anti-war sentiment has no place in a kid's movie...um, so, I guess pro-war is better?
This movie is great escapist fare and fun...I especialy enjoyed the scenes of the soldiers fashioning their own weapons from household items.
I also have to take issue with the "Frankenhooker" comment (BTW, "Frankenhooker" gets a huge 10 from me). I liked the Gwendy dolls. It was fun and added a scary (for the kids anyways) element. It added a sense of danger and was a fun little jab at not only Barbie, but girls' obsessions with them.
Again, not Dante's best, but still great entertainment value.
This wasn't as good as the "Gremlins" movies or "The 'burbs" but was very entertaining. My kids loved as did I and I think we liked it for different reasons. As a film buff I always get a huge kick out of the in-jokes and references (often leaving my wife wondering what's cracking me up).
The script is admittedly a little weak and at times dark...but not every "kids movie" has to be fluffy happy Disney dreck.
As for the comment that anti-war sentiment has no place in a kid's movie...um, so, I guess pro-war is better?
This movie is great escapist fare and fun...I especialy enjoyed the scenes of the soldiers fashioning their own weapons from household items.
I also have to take issue with the "Frankenhooker" comment (BTW, "Frankenhooker" gets a huge 10 from me). I liked the Gwendy dolls. It was fun and added a scary (for the kids anyways) element. It added a sense of danger and was a fun little jab at not only Barbie, but girls' obsessions with them.
Again, not Dante's best, but still great entertainment value.