When most remember World War II, they think of grand battles, bloody skirmishes, and epic feats of valour. The truth, however, is that the second great war was host to countless other, smaller stories; secret tales of conflict and hope and inspiration. One such tale, Facing the Enemy, shows a unique side of this devastating war, and reveals a ray of light in Europe’s darkest days.

Set atop a blustery mountain during the most brutal stages of the Second World War, our story opens with a German soldier and a Russian commissar, one who is due to be executed by the other, despite the fact that both men are complete strangers. As the two men talk, they grow to understand one another, as well as the nature of war, and the absurdity of hating a stranger based only on someone else’s orders.

This film is the cinematic debut of directo Patrik Lančarič, formerly renowned for his work in the theatre. His adaptation of the story by Slovak writer Leopold Lahola brings a unique style and sensibility to the harsh realities of warfare. Using real war footage, the story gradually moves away from a simple, linear tale to depict a more all-encompassing, universal idea. Despite its low budget, this film is a testament to the power of art, and the passion of its cast and crew.

Facing the Enemy invites the viewer to look into the mirror and ask how much of the Russian commissar or the German soldier lies in each of us. As humans, do we choose mercy and forgiveness, or revenge and brutality? (fonte: eurochannel)