One of those “universal” tales that are so often vague and sticky, but the simplicity and restraint of director Grigori Chukhrai lift it above the run.
Comment
02/08/10
Ballad of a Soldier (1959)
100
%
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:11
Fresh:11
Rotten:0
Average Rating:8.5/10
Runtime: 89 mins
Genre: Foreign Films
Synopsis: A touching WWII story of a reluctant young hero who, when given leave from the front, sets out to see his mother and fix up the roof of their house. On his way home he encounters odd little... [More]
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Reviews for Ballad of a Soldier
1 - 16 (sorted by date)
Top Critic... a simple, poetic tale where the sentimental streak and patriotic idealism common to the Soviet formula is humanized with vivid characters and tender direction.
05/09/09
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03/26/09
Top CriticDeceptively simple, heartfelt.
05/23/08
At once particular and universal, this lyrically poetic, emotionally touching anti-war movie is one of the most honored and popular Russian films ever made, achieving an instant status of a classic.
04/11/07
It's a lyrical humanistic black and white film that's simply told and its universal anti-war message is easily understood.
12/26/06
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08/08/06
Top Critic...a simple, genuine, and non-dogmatic meditation on the incalculably tragic cost of war.
04/04/06
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01/26/06
Top CriticClick to read the article
05/09/05
Top CriticNo review available.
11/04/04
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12/30/02
Had Ballad of a Soldier received wider play in 1960, more Americans would have realized that individual Russians are real human beings
07/12/02
Almost awkwardly idealistic, instead of brimming with socialist rhetoric, the film celebrates the individual human spirit and the power of good deeds.
06/13/02
Perfectly crafted.
04/18/02
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01/01/00
Top Critic1 - 16 (sorted by date)
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