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Small Soldiers 1998

“Big Movie.”

★ 6.6/10 · 2,359 votes PG-13 ComedyAdventureFantasyScience FictionAction Released
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Quick answer

What is Small Soldiers?

Small Soldiers is a 1998 film centered on the consequences of integrating advanced military technology into the manufacturing of consumer products. The story follows a premise where sophisticated missile technology is utilized to enhance the capabilities of toy action figures.

Type
Film
Year
1998
Status
Released
Runtime
110 minutes
Release date
Jul 10, 1998
Original language
EN
Origin
United States of America
Studios
DreamWorks Pictures, Universal Pictures, Amblin Entertainment
Budget
$40,000,000
Revenue
$54,682,547
Genres
Comedy, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Updated
Availability by region

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Overview

Small Soldiers is a 1998 film centered on the consequences of integrating advanced military technology into the manufacturing of consumer products. The story follows a premise where sophisticated missile technology is utilized to enhance the capabilities of toy action figures. As the narrative progresses, these toys begin to function beyond their intended design. The central conflict arises when the action figures start to take their internal battle programming too seriously, leading to unforeseen complications. The film explores the tension that occurs when these playthings transition from inanimate objects to active combatants. By incorporating real-world defense systems into the development of toys, the production highlights the dangers of merging high-stakes weaponry with everyday entertainment items. Throughout the film, the toys exhibit behavior that reflects their combat-oriented software, resulting in a series of events where the boundaries between toy-like play and actual warfare become increasingly blurred. The plot focuses on the resulting chaos as the toys act upon their aggressive programming within a domestic setting.

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Should you watch it?

“Toy soldiers upgraded with missile tech turn their playtime into a real battle.”

Reasons to watch
  • Sharp blend of comedy and high‑octane action
  • Inventive premise of militarized toys
  • Directed by genre‑savvy Joe Dante
Keep in mind
  • Violence can feel intense for younger viewers
  • Mixed critical reception

Watch it if you enjoy fast‑paced sci‑fi action with a tongue‑in‑cheek take on toys.

The film is PG‑13, mixing family humor with frequent violent action scenes.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the basic premise of Small Soldiers?

It follows toy action figures enhanced with missile technology that begin to take their battle programming seriously.

Who directed Small Soldiers?

The film was directed by Joe Dante.

When was Small Soldiers released and what rating does it have?

It was released in the United States on July 10, 1998, and carries a PG‑13 rating.

How was Small Soldiers received by critics and at the box office?

It received mixed reviews and grossed about $71.8 million against a $40 million budget.

What genres does Small Soldiers blend?

The movie combines comedy, adventure, fantasy, science‑fiction, and action elements.