Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by Gabriel L — 19 Sep 2012

Being my favorite film of all time, Paths of Glory is a brutal, honest, and cynical look at war. Directed by Stanley Kubrick (2001, Shining), Paths of Glory takes place in World War I in France. A pompous Admiral is given the task of taking an, "Anthill." He hires Colonel Dax, played by Kirk Douglas in his finest role, who attempts but fails to take it as a result to the difficulty. In order to clean up the fact that the Admiral tried murdering his own men, he has 1 man from each platoon tried for Cowardess. With Dax as the Defense Attorney, this is our movie.

Paths of Glory is such a great film mainly because of the feeling of emotion among the characters. Some could argue it's a melodrama, but I would argue it's one of the most important films of the 20th century, being an example of how war is hell, and how things aren't always what they seem.

Something to notice is the distinct visual style of the film. Considering it was directed by a young Stanley Kubrick, it has to have an interesting style. And it does! The film's scenes in the trenches are so suspenseful for the fact that Kubrick films them with a tracking shot following the actors' movements and actions. A very artsy move on Kubrick's part.

All in all, Paths of Glory is a masterpiece and should be celebrated as one. Bravo!