The Coss of Iron

Rating: 10/10 (15 May 2005)

This anti-war movie is well beyond the standard yarn of good vs. evil and the absence of a love triangle keeps the theme on course. This movie represents the German infantry soldier on the Eastern Front of WWII; during a time of global insanity.
Having served in the military myself I can attest to the believability of the characters, the conditions the infantry soldier must endure, and the sheer terror of war.
The cast were well chosen to portray the characteristics of the enlisted, the NCO'S and commissioned officers.
James Coburn is masterful in his adaption the character's responsibilities in leading men in the trenches.
James Mason seamlessly slides into the role of the autocratic Prussian desperate to measure up to his family military history by being awarded the Iron Cross, first class, by any means possible.
The humanity of war is clearly shown in its actions and repercussions of those actions taken just to survive.
I highly recommend this film.
The Mutant Poodle