Cross of Iron

Cross of Iron

Year: 1977

Runtime: 132 min

Language: English

Director: Sam Peckinpah

DramaWar

During the final months of World War II, decorated Corporal Rolf Steiner finds himself at odds with ambitious Captain Stransky, who seeks to undermine him and claim Steiner's Iron Cross medal. Set against the backdrop of a brutal battlefield, the film explores the clash between Steiner’s pragmatic approach to war and Stransky’s desperate need for recognition. Their rivalry intensifies as they navigate the dangers of combat and the moral compromises demanded by war, blurring the lines between duty and personal ambition.

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Timeline – Cross of Iron (1977)

Trace every key event in Cross of Iron (1977) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Introduction of Rolf Steiner

Corporal Rolf Steiner is introduced as a seasoned soldier in the Wehrmacht, stationed on the Eastern Front during World War II. The brutal realities of war have shaped his character, pushing him to confront not only enemy soldiers but the moral complexities of conflict.

World War II Eastern Front
2

Successful Mission

Steiner and his reconnaissance platoon successfully execute a mission against an enemy mortar position. Their victory, however, is overshadowed by the grim realities of war, leading to complex moral choices.

Immediately after the mission Enemy territory
3

Capture of the Russian Boy Soldier

As they return to friendly lines, Steiner's platoon captures a young Russian boy soldier. This moment sets off a cascade of ethical dilemmas, questioning the inherent humanity within the barbarism of war.

After the successful mission In transit to the lines
4

Arrival of Captain Stransky

Captain Stransky arrives to take command of Steiner's battalion, creating a palpable tension within the unit. His background and ambition to earn the Iron Cross raise suspicions among the men, especially regarding his rapid transfer to the front lines.

Following the capture of the boy German base
5

Stransky's Execution Order

Stransky coldly orders the execution of the captured Russian boy soldier, showcasing his ruthless nature. Steiner's defiance in refusing this order highlights the moral divide between him and Stransky.

Shortly after Stransky's arrival German camp
6

Steiner's Promotion

During a heated meeting with Stransky, Steiner learns of his promotion to senior sergeant. This development emphasizes the growing tensions and conflicts among the ranks, particularly with Stransky's ambitions.

After the execution order Command tent
7

Lieutenant Meyer's Birthday

The platoon gathers to celebrate Lieutenant Meyer's birthday, creating a rare moment of levity amidst the chaos of war. This celebration quickly turns tragic as the situation spirals out of control, marking a significant turning point.

On Meyer's birthday German camp
8

Tragedy Strikes

In a tragic turn, during a chaotic counterattack, Steiner attempts to liberate the young Russian boy but is accidentally killed by advancing Soviet troops. This loss serves as a profound reminder of the war's indiscriminate brutality.

During the counterattack Battlefield
9

Steiner's Hospitalization

Wounded in battle, Steiner is sent to a military hospital where he experiences flashbacks of the horrors he faced. He also develops a brief romantic connection with a nurse, which highlights moments of human connection amid the despair.

After being wounded Military hospital
10

Return to Duty

Opting for duty over recuperation, Steiner returns to his platoon instead of taking a home leave. This decision reflects his commitment to his men and the harsh realities of a soldier’s life.

After his hospital stay German base
11

Iron Cross Controversy

Upon his return, Steiner learns about Stransky's questionable nomination for the Iron Cross based on Meyer's actions. The situation is further complicated by Stransky's manipulative tactics as he attempts to coerce others into supporting his deceit.

Shortly after returning Command center
12

The Retreat Orders

As retreat orders are issued, Stransky's failure to inform Steiner's platoon leads them into dangerous territory. This lack of communication demonstrates Stransky's negligence and highlights the growing disarray within their unit.

During the retreat Front lines
13

Encounter with Russian Unit

During their perilous retreat, Steiner and his men capture an all-female Russian unit. This encounter exposes the darker side of war as the situation quickly escalates into a scene of violence and horror.

During the retreat Near the front lines
14

Zoll's Despicable Act

In a shocking event, Nazi Party member Zoll brutally rapes one of the Russian women, leading to her death. This atrocity fuels Steiner's anger and prompts him to imprison Zoll with the Russian captives as a form of retribution.

After capturing the Russian unit Tent facility
15

Final Confrontation

In a climactic confrontation, Steiner finds Stransky and, instead of killing him, offers him a weapon to face the reality of war together. The film ends on a haunting note, with Stransky bewildered by the chaos around him as the dark humor of war takes its toll.

Final moments of the film Battlefield

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 18:13

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