Plot Summary of Enemy at the Gates.

Rating: Null/10 (17 April 2001)

The movie which I have chosen to do this paper on is the suspenseful, `edge of your seat', Enemy at the Gates. The story follows events based on the exploits of a young Russian sniper during the battle of Stalingrad in 1942. Vasilli Zaitsev, is used as a hero and an example for the demoralized Russian people. He becomes as popular as a movie star, which attracts some unwanted attention. The Germans send in their prize elite sniper, Major Koenig, to deal with the situation. The storyline follows the actions of the two skilful snipers and the constant struggle between man vs. man. This story uses heavy conflict, which as a clash of actions, ideals, and side which is heavily physical and morally based. The movie shows its view clearly of who it thinks the protagonist and antagonist are. Depending on our own personal view, we may also have a different preference. The movie tries to really emphasize the struggle of man vs. man by shadowing out all other side events which may hinder the one on one feeling of tension throughout. The movie does have a surprise ending if you do not know the actual story, and if you believe that the protagonist could lose. But it turns out that it has a `happy ending', the hero must solve his problems, defeat the villain and win the girl. Although I thoroughly enjoyed `Enemy at the Gates' for its historical storyline, special effects, and well done acting by the two snipers, it was a bit weak in some areas. The actual plot was quite weak because it happens just like a predictable `bad guy gets his, and good guy gets glory and the girl'. There also were other instances of weaknesses in the plot which added to its almost `staleness'. But I find it makes up for these discrepancies with the rich character portraits.