“Enemy at the Gates” is a 2001 war film directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, set during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II. The film centers on the legendary sniper duel between Vasily Zaitsev, a Soviet sniper, and Major Erwin König, a German sniper sent to kill him.

The story unfolds amidst the brutal siege of Stalingrad, with the Soviet and German forces locked in a deadly struggle for control of the city. Vasily Zaitsev, portrayed by Jude Law, becomes a national hero due to his sharpshooting skills, and his success catches the attention of the German high command. In response, the Germans dispatch their best sniper, Major Erwin König, played by Ed Harris, to eliminate Zaitsev and break Soviet morale.

The film is noted for its intense action sequences and the cat-and-mouse tension between the two snipers. The performances of Jude Law and Ed Harris are particularly strong, bringing depth and intensity to their respective characters. The supporting cast includes Rachel Weisz, Joseph Fiennes, and Bob Hoskins, who all contribute to the film’s gripping narrative.

Despite receiving mixed reviews, with praise for its action and performances, “Enemy at the Gates” faced criticism for historical inaccuracies and some melodramatic elements. Nonetheless, it provides a dramatic and intense portrayal of one of World War II’s most infamous battles, focusing on the personal duel between two expert snipers against the backdrop of a devastating conflict. The film captures the harsh realities of war while highlighting individual bravery and the psychological warfare between the two adversaries.