In late 1941, with the Nazi invasion of Russia still advancing, the Red Army leaves bands of guerillas behind in the forests. One such band is joined by beautiful ballet dancer Nina; initially inept, a series of bitter lessons gradually make her a seasoned soldier. The group still form human attachments, despite the shadow of grim death that makes their greatest hope one of selling their lives dearly...
The story of a German company of soldiers on the Eastern Front in the Second World War, brings a less known side to the war experience: that of the “enemy”. For the director Sam Peckinpah, known for his violent style, this is an unusual war film in which he joins a cynical commander who isn’t particularly patriotic, but who is concerned for his soldiers, with a commander who is pro-regime and whose only concern is the Iron Cross he will be awarded if victorious.