As the Nazis cut a deadly swath through Russia, the citizens of Stalingrad are mounting a brave resistance, spurred by the exploits of their local hero, Vassili Zaitsev. An expert sniper, Vassili’s deeds have become legendary. To stop Vassili, the Germans dispatch their best sniper to Stalingrad. As the city burns, Vassili and Konig begin a cunning game of cat and mouse, waging a private war for courage, honor and country.
What We Thought:
Enemy at the Gates came out in 2001 and I probably haven’t seen it since then. I always like a good sniper flick and despite some major historical inaccuracies, the movie is pretty entertaining when it comes to the war drama.
Jude Law plays Vassili Zaitsev, who after saving the life of Commissar Danilov (Joseph Fiennes) becomes a Russian hero who gets his name thrown all around the papers. Vassili becomes a sniper who takes out high ranking German commanders and the Russian people cheer his name. This brings him unwanted attention and soon German Major Erwin König (Ed Harris) takes on the Russian sniper hero himself. The city of Stalingrad is on the line when Vassili and Konig do battle against one another.
When the film focuses on the World War II elements it’s good. Law is perfectly fine in the role and Harris is always great. Fiennes does his part and you can never go wrong with Bob Hoskins. Unfortunately there’s a love story/triangle with Rachel Weisz that doesn’t need to be there. Don’t get me wrong Weisz is a highly attractive woman (especially back then), but the love triangle between her and Law and Fiennes is so unnecessary. Fiennes wants her, Law has her, none of it is necessary in the movie. Her character is an intelligent woman who can use a rifle and translate languages, there doesn’t need to be anything more than that.
That being said, I still like Enemy at the Gates more than I dislike it. Some of the historical details have long been proven wrong, but you can say that about a lot of war movies. The 4K 25th Anniversary Steelbook looks fantastic and sounds just as good. The explosions and action sound big and in your face. The score sounds perfect as well. It also comes with bonus features like deleted scenes and a look Inside Enemy at the Gates. If you are a fan of the film the 4K upgrade is well worth it. If you are a Steelbook collector this makes a great addition as well.
The Nerds Templar 