“Cross of Iron” is a 1977 war film directed by Sam Peckinpah, based on the 1955 novel “The Willing Flesh” by Willi Heinrich. The story is set on the Eastern Front during World War II, specifically in 1943, and follows a platoon of German soldiers in the Wehrmacht.
The film centers on Corporal Rolf Steiner (James Coburn), a battle-hardened and cynical soldier who becomes embroiled in a clash of wills with his new commanding officer, Captain Stransky (Maximilian Schell). Stransky is an aristocratic Prussian officer who is ambitious and desperate to win the Iron Cross, a prestigious German military decoration, to uphold his family’s honor.

Captain Stransky, who has never experienced frontline combat, is determined to earn the Iron Cross by any means necessary. He takes command with the primary goal of achieving personal glory, showing little regard for the lives of his men. Steiner, in contrast, is respected by his comrades for his bravery and leadership but is deeply disillusioned by the war and distrustful of authority.
As the Soviets launch a major offensive, Stransky orders Steiner’s platoon on a near-suicidal mission to hold a strategic position. The ensuing battle is brutal and chaotic, highlighting the horrors and futility of war. Stransky’s cowardice and incompetence become apparent, and he attempts to cover up his failures by falsely claiming credit for Steiner’s heroics. Steiner, who survives the ordeal, confronts Stransky, leading to a tense and morally complex confrontation.
“Cross of Iron” is notable for its gritty and realistic portrayal of combat, its anti-war themes, and its critical view of military hierarchy and honor. Peckinpah’s direction emphasizes the brutality and senselessness of war, making the film a powerful and poignant commentary on the human cost of conflict.