Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by Robin W — 07 Dec 2013

One of Stanley Kubrick's earlier films and probably his most straightforward film as well. When the ambitious, but heartless French General Mireau (George Macready) learns that he's being considered for a promotion, he's easily persuaded by the General Staff to order one of his regiments lead by, Colonel Dax (Kirk Douglas) on a suicide mission to take the German stronghold Anthill. Just as predicted the attack fails, but to save face, General Mireau blames the whole regiment of cowardice and orders Colonel Dax to pick three men who are to be tried and executed in accordance with French military law an action which doesn't sit to well with Colonel Dax who decides to use his experience as a criminal defense-lawyer to defend the three men.

The statement this film makes is certainly one that is uncomfortable to the French army, but it's a universal statement that could apply to any army and any war where leaders are willing to sacrifice human lives for a star on their uniform or for the chance of being considered heroes to their country. There are no scenes in the film depicting the bond between the soldiers this is really not that type of film, instead it's a very grim anti-war film that doesn't focus on the fighting, but more on the reasoning and moral among high-ranking leaders, which in this film leads to grave injustice. Shooting the film in black and white was a brilliant choice since it helps the grim and gloomy tone of the film and very few actors could pull of the frustrated, but duty-bound Colonel Dax as well as Kirk Douglas does. The final praise I have to give is for the beautiful ending, an ending which makes the most powerful statement in the entire movie.