Eisenstein's Spectacular Film
Alexander Nevsky is one of the legendary figures of Russian history. He dates from the thirteenth century when the Russian lands were loosely ruled by local chieftains paying tribute to the Mongol Khans.
In 1242, when the Knights of the Teutonic order invaded the country and drove far into Russia, Alexander Nevsky emerged as his country's leader.
When the film opens he is seen resting from warfare quietly engaged in fishing. News of the advance of the Teutons is brought to the great city of Novgorod. As the Teutons advance further and capture Pskov, Novgorod sends a deputation to Alexander, asking him to lead all men of 'Rus' against the invaders. Alexander raises a peasant army and, after some skirmishes with the enemy, traps their troops on the ice of Lake Peipus. Here the invaders are utterly defeated, most of their men being drowned when the ice gives way beneath the weight of their armour.