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Movies August 2, 2024

Release Date: May 25, 1977

Director: Sam Peckinpah

Main Cast:

• James Coburn as Sergeant Rolf Steiner
• Maximilian Schell as Captain Stransky
• James Mason as Colonel Brandt
• David Warner as Captain Kiesel
• Klaus Löwitsch as Corporal Krüger

Plot Summary “Cross of Iron” is a gritty and intense war film set on the Eastern Front during World War II, focusing on the brutal conflict between German and Soviet forces. The story follows battle-hardened Sergeant Rolf Steiner, a seasoned German soldier who has become disillusioned with the war. Steiner’s leadership and survival skills are put to the test when he clashes with the ambitious and arrogant Captain Stransky, who is obsessed with earning the Iron Cross, a prestigious military decoration, at any cost. As the fighting intensifies, the film delves into the chaos and futility of war, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers on both sides.

Trailer Highlights The trailer for “Cross of Iron” is raw and powerful, featuring:

• Intense battle scenes that capture the ferocity of combat on the Eastern Front, with explosions, gunfire, and close-quarters fighting
• Tension-filled moments between Steiner and Stransky, as their conflict escalates and threatens the lives of their comrades
• The bleak and desolate landscape of the war-torn Eastern Front, emphasizing the harsh conditions faced by the soldiers
• A focus on the psychological toll of war, with scenes that reveal the fear, anger, and despair of the men fighting for survival
• A stark portrayal of the futility and madness of war, as characters grapple with their sense of duty, honor, and humanity in the face of overwhelming violence

Reception “Cross of Iron” is regarded as one of Sam Peckinpah’s most significant works and a standout film in the war genre. The film was praised for its unflinching depiction of the brutality of war and its complex characters, particularly James Coburn’s portrayal of the cynical yet heroic Steiner. Peckinpah’s direction, known for its gritty realism and stylized violence, brought a visceral quality to the film that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Although it was not a major box office success, “Cross of Iron” has since gained recognition as a powerful anti-war film that challenges the glorification of combat. The trailer effectively conveys the film’s intense atmosphere and the moral complexity of its characters, making it a compelling watch for fans of war cinema.