Customer Reviews

My Christmas Soldier

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

MY CHRISTMAS SOLDIER is a heartwarming story of the true meaning of Christmas as seen through the eyes of a child. Despite language barriers, the threat of "evil enemies" and the paranoia surrounding war-time America, a young boy is able to reach out and find common ground and humanity in a group of strangers desperately in need of solace on Christmas Eve. Superb performances and riveting story-telling. A wonderful Christmas gift for adults and children alike.

The viewer is presented with a touching friendship between two American children and German POW'S (far from home on Christmas Eve, 1943). They meet by chance at a railroad station. This wonderful film is truly for everyone of all ages.

An added bonus is an interview with a real German POW who chose to live in America after the war. Very few people are familiar with this side of American history.

Here's an inspiring little movie showing that even in times when hatred and fear are rampant, with open hearts and open minds even enemies can come together, heal together. Something we need to remember in these tumultuous times.

Well written, although short. In 36 minutes, you see a dramatization of what actually took place in towns that held Nazi POW camps around the USA in 1943. The writer bases "My Christmas Soldier" on real events, but fictitious characters, to present this story of war, emotional struggles, and the compassion that can erupt in the midst of distrust. And from the action of children.
SUBTITLES available.

The cast is not composed of stars; however they do a professional portrayal of the 40s period people. A Georgia train station is filled with locals, some awaiting returning US soldiers on Christmas Eve. Delays are forced as a train boxcar load of Nazi prisoners needs transferred to improved traveling arrangements. Locals sit and debate the desire/displeasure of having the enemy at their door. One young boy and younger sister (Emily Jordan-4 Sugar Creek Gang films gives her as much acting experience as any cast member) discover an English speaking prisoner, Hans, and trade food through a boxcar window. In the short time period of the movie, a relationship is formed, along with an understanding of the human side of war and enemy soldiers. Outcome is resultant of a Christmas carol. It's touching, and according to the writer, almost all true, based on research, except names.

It's historical, it's the Christmas spirit, it is safe for the entire family. Family approved by The Dove Foundation.

The bonus features make this film short worth the expense.
53 min. "Documentary: Journey to America", a factual history of what took place as the German POWs were sent to America, told through a real German POW.
17 min. "German POWs at Camp Shelby, a real POW camp and that history is presented by the Armed Forces Museum Director.
6 min. of "Bringing Home The Enemy" is a behind the scenes bit with interviews of the writer, Mauriel Joslyn, and actor Silvio Wolf Busch (Hans).

It's not new, but it is timeless. Available new or used. Short enough to watch every Christmas. Store it with your holiday decorations. It helps remind us to be thankful for our soldiers abroad protecting our freedom, and their sacrifices during all holiday seasons.
Worthwhile educationally for all.

I thought this was a very heart-warming story. It is short and will keep the attention of a young audience. I highly recommend this for 'movie night' with the kids!

I would highly recommend this movie! It is one that you could watch each year at Christmas and come away feeling good about it.

We enjoyed watching again this Christmas story of tolerance and acceptance. I recommend this video DVD to anyone for veiwing at Christmas time or anytime.

I purchased this to possibly show at an evening service at our church around Christmas. One review I read said it sounds sappy, but it's really not that bad. Don't believe it. Too sappy to show. There is an interview (included with the extras) with a former German POW from WWII that might be worth the price. It's much more interesting than the title video.