Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by Josh M — 27 Dec 2008
One of Kubrick's best films plays this weekend at the Belcourt in a pristine print. What a joy - although using that word around this film may paint a misleading picture. Bitter, cynical, and uncompromising, this is probably the crown jewel of the first half of Kubrick's career, and it's fascinating to see the man coming into his own as a director.
From the long sweeping trench shots to the epic battle scenes, from the brutality of war to that haunting ending, Paths of Glory is a career-defining film, one whose raw emotional impact has never lessened over the years.
A rage against the evils of war and yet the nobility of soldiers, Paths is must-see viewing for any serious student of film - it's spectacularly filmed, but its real power lies in the tale it tells, one whose power to enrage hasn't lessened at all.
This review of Paths of Glory (1957) was written by Josh M on 27 Dec 2008.
Paths of Glory has generally received very positive reviews.
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