“Cross of Iron,” directed by Sam Peckinpah, is a gripping war film set on the Eastern Front during World War II in 1943. Adapted from Willi Heinrich’s novel “The Willing Flesh,” the story revolves around Corporal Rolf Steiner (James Coburn), a seasoned and cynical soldier, and Captain Stransky (Maximilian Schell), an ambitious Prussian officer driven by personal glory.

Stransky, eager to earn the prestigious Iron Cross despite lacking frontline experience, clashes with Steiner, who commands respect for his bravery but harbors deep disillusionment toward the war and authority. As the Soviet forces launch a massive offensive, Stransky’s reckless orders put Steiner’s platoon in perilous situations, exposing the stark realities of combat and the human toll of ambition and cowardice.

“Cross of Iron” stands out for its gritty realism and its unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war. Sam Peckinpah’s direction brings forth anti-war sentiments, highlighting the futility of conflict and questioning the notions of military honor and hierarchy. The film’s intense battle sequences and moral complexities underscore its status as a powerful commentary on the sacrifices made and the moral compromises faced during wartime.