Review of Enemy at the Gates

Introduction

This was quite the sleeper hit when it appeared at the box office. Seen as one of those "cash in on other war movies" type movies it actually offered a similar style to Saving Private Ryan if not quite as well executed. Where this movie probably fell down was the characterisations with Jude law as a Russian with no attempt at a Russian accent. How many can also honestly say they are truly interested in the war between the Russians and Nazis.
But I will urge you now, see this movie it`s a piece of history that most people never truly understood and is captured remarkably.

Video

Impeccable is the only way I can describe it, reference quality is actually another. All areas are shown in anamorphic widescreen in fine detail, from the deep browns in Stalingrad to the Icy battlefields. The blacks are deep when they need to be and whites pin sharp. You get an almost 3D feel to the picture as a whole. I`ve thought of another word too impressive, very impressive.
A nod must also be given to the disc amazing 3D animated computer graphic menus. Not many R2 disc creators go to such lengths.

Audio

Sound to match the picture, this is turning into a demo disc fast. You get big bangs for your bucks with both DD and DTS tracks. Both are ferocious with tremendous bass extension. But it`s the DTS track that edges that bit forward towards the enemy lines with amazing clarity it really fills the whole listening space.

Features

Two featurettes give insights into the making of this cinematic marvel.
"Inside enemy at the Gates" delves into the technical aspects whereas "Through the Crosshairs" is a little too self congratulatory for my tastes. Both documentaries have interviews with various cast and crew members who talk mainly about their training for the film.
An audio commentary is also available from writer/director Jean-Jacques Annaud. He discusses many aspects of the shoot, but focuses mainly on the impressive set design.
There`s also a Pathe documentary on the Stalingrad battle, eight deleted scenes that can be viewed in context with the movie by way of seamless branching. You also get a poster campaign gallery, filmographies and a DD 5.1 trailer.

Conclusion

A nerve wrecking deeply haunting and astonishingly brilliant movie with amazing performances from Jude Law and Ed Harris. This ranks almost equal with Saving Private Ryan in my war film list. The disc is reference quality for picture and sound and even the extras are crammed in there to boot. Don`t miss this movie!