... a simple, poetic tale where the sentimental streak and patriotic idealism common to the Soviet formula is humanized with vivid characters and tender direction.
Ballad of a Soldier (1959)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:10
Fresh:10
Rotten:0
Average Rating:8.6/10
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... 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 adventures, including a innocent romance with a homeless girl who stows away on his military train. He finally arrives home with only enough time to look at his mother before he has to turn around and go back to the front. [More]
Starring: Vladimar Ivashov, Shauna Prokhorenko
Starring: Vladimar Ivashov, Shauna Prokhorenko
Director: Grigori Chukhrai
Director: Grigori Chukhrai
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Reviews for Ballad of a Soldier
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.
It's a lyrical humanistic black and white film that's simply told and its universal anti-war message is easily understood.
...a simple, genuine, and non-dogmatic meditation on the incalculably tragic cost of war.
Had Ballad of a Soldier received wider play in 1960, more Americans would have realized that individual Russians are real human beings
Almost awkwardly idealistic, instead of brimming with socialist rhetoric, the film celebrates the individual human spirit and the power of good deeds.
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 36% 36% | Angels & Demons |
| 25% 25% | Four Christmases |
| 68% 68% | Funny People |
| 95% 95% | Star Trek |
| 14% 14% | The Ugly Truth |
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 32% 32% | Terminator Salvation |
| 44% 44% | Night at the Museum: B… |
| 86% 86% | A Christmas Tale |
| 60% 60% | Paper Heart |
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