This is a story about exciting events that occurred in the life of the smallest soldier - the hero of the Great Patriotic War, six-year-old Sergei Aleshkov. He lost all his relatives and got into the army. With a six-year-old boy, they started playing the soldier game in order to preserve his childhood, and he, in order to comply with this honorary title, became a real defender of the Motherland.
Soldier Boy is a tale I initially felt was rather far fetched. A six year old child adopted by a battalion of Soviet soldiers, after the death of his family. In an active war zone!
Well, not only is this a remarkable tale its also true. Some creative license has been taken with the facts but for the most part, this is a reasonably accurate depiction.
The story's a compelling one. Its sad but more often than not, uplifting. Acting is some of the best I've seen and with the lead being so young, his performance can only be described as Oscar worthy.
He's utterly convincing and for that matter endearing. At times too, his childish seriousness is amusing, You can't help but smile. I can fully appreciate why the soldiers enjoyed his company.
In summary, this is a top shelf effort. One of the best films I've seen in a very long time. Its also free to watch on Youtube.