Review of Cross of Iron (1977) by Jason J — 21 Jun 2011
Sam Peckinpah directed this almost unique account in Western cinema of the fighting on the Eastern Front during WWII. This is basically one of the most intense war movies ever made, not surpassed until Saving Private Ryan came along.
This is a gritty, raw tale set against the largest and most brutal land battle fought in human history. The rather weird ending is explained by the lack of budget. The battle scenes are excellent and the claustrophobic gun battle in the factory with the dust, sparks and firing has in my opinion never been equalled.
James Coburn is brilliant in the lead who continues to do his duty in spite of the inevitability of impending defeat. Maximilian Schell is suitably ambitious and cunning as the chief villain and James Mason and David Warner convey the hopelessness of the situation while maintaining stiff upper lips.
"Cross of Iron", in it's uncut version (132 minutes) ranks as one of the greatest of all WWII films in my opinion.
This review of Cross of Iron (1977) was written by Jason J on 21 Jun 2011.
Cross of Iron has generally received positive reviews.
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