Cross of Iron (1977) is a war film directed by Sam Peckinpah. Set during World War II, the film follows a German squadron on the Eastern Front, focusing on the harsh realities of combat and the personal conflicts within the squad.
The story centers on Sergeant Steiner (played by James Coburn), a battle-hardened and disillusioned German soldier who finds himself at odds with his commanding officer, Colonel Brandt (Maximilian Schell), who is more concerned with his own glory and the acquisition of medals than the welfare of his men. As the squadron faces intense battles with the Soviet forces, internal tensions and moral dilemmas come to the forefront.
Cross of Iron is known for its gritty portrayal of war and its critique of the military hierarchy. The film combines intense action sequences with a deep exploration of character and the futility of war, making it a notable entry in the war film genre.
