Stalingrad

Stalingrad set box office records in Russia when it was released in 2013. It is a technical marvel in that it was the first Russian film to be completely produced using the 3D IMAX format. The film focuses on the Battle of Stalingrad, one of World War II’s bloodiest battles, and five Russian soldiers who set up a stronghold in an apartment building against the invading German forces. As they fight for their survival, they also form a loving bond with a young woman. Even amidst the destruction and chaos there is still hope for love.

War is not a pretty sight, and Stalingrad does a good job at portraying the mayhem associated with it. The battle was bloody and brutal and the film doesn’t pull any punches, especially towards the beginning. People are blown to bits, set on fire and reduced to charred corpses, and shot or stabbed to death. It can be a little over the top. Battles are more like elegant dances than chaotic bloodshed as the cameras tend to find the most exotic angles and slow down as the action reaches the climax. It’s how I imagine Zach Snyder would make a World War II film. The style fits the film surprisingly well.

Wrapped around the traditional war film is also a love story. When the Russians take over the apartment building there is still one girl living there, refusing to leave. She fights alongside the five soldiers, doing what she can to help out, and they soon develop a loving relationship. Every bond they form is different. With one soldier it may be like that of a father and daughter while with another it may be brother and sister. With every soldier, though, it’s love.

On the opposite end of the battlefield there is another love story, although it’s a bit more awkward. The German captain in charge of the forces at Stalingrad has been seeing a young girl of his own. Initially it’s very much a one sided relationship as she reminds him of his late wife and she utterly detests him as he has destroyed much of her city. It’s weird because as the film progresses they become closer and closer, even though they don’t speak the same language. Their relationship is more like case of Stockholm syndrome than actual love, as best I can see it.

The middle of a war is an interesting place to put a love story, but Stalingrad manages to pull it off quite well. It’s not forceful in its portrayal and doesn’t take away from the over-the-top action. It’s just something that progresses throughout the film.

Stalingrad is Band of Brothers meets 300 and manages to show the brutal nature of war as well as the passionate side of romance. Balancing the two is no easy task, but the film manages to have neither one be too overpowering. Whether you’re looking for straight up action or a little heart, Stalingrad has a bit of both for you.