Review of Enemy at the Gates (2001) by Ryan B — 26 May 2009

This is a great counterweight to "Saving Private Ryan" (also a great film); it shows the other side (both literally and figuratively) of the 2nd World War, through the ephemeral period where the Soviets were allies.

Allies yes, but fighting a war that looks far less glamorous and idealistic...in fact ideals must be dug for deeply and seldom have the (apparent) clarity of those in the west. Definitely not a 'get up and cheer' war flick, but definitely one that gives a glimpse into the conflict that I haven't really seen elsewhere...nothing is pretty or shiny (save for perhaps Ed Harris's boots) herein...this war feels more like an extension of decades of life at the edge of survival for the Soviets...one where glory is simply living another day.

Must see for WW2 buffs (at least those who truly want to understand the conflict beyond the hype)!

One further footnote...if you played through the Soviet campaign in Call of Duty (2 I believe?) you will recognize both the brutal Soviet D-day style landing and the suicidal charges through the square in Stalingrad...gives one a sense of the massive losses the Soviets took.