Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by V.s. L — 15 Nov 2008

Stanley Kubrick's 1957 antiwar masterpiece starring Kirk Douglas as a French Colonel in his battle-worn regiment of World War 1. Under the threat of German artillery in the trenches of warfare, Kubrick's brilliant use of cinematography, music, lighting, etc. result in some of the most effective battle sequences ever filmed.

The camera work in the trenches is gripping, and an utter reminder of how war truly is hell, and how soldiers are thought so little of as a fault of selfish, personal ambitions and self indulgence resulting in senseless executions.

Though the film touches on themes of courage and loyalty in warfare, it's more about the historical realities of World War 1, and military leaders who orchestrate the deaths of thousands from the comforts of their luxurious headquarters.