Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by Bobby B — 17 Jul 2010

It's always an awesome surprise to watch a new favorite movie from a director you already love, which is the case for Stanley Kubrick's Paths of Glory. Maybe because it's one of his earlier films I wasn't expecting Paths of Glory to measure up to his later masterpieces, but Kubrick shocked me by delivering one of the most powerful films I've ever seen. While watching, I was terrified, infuriated, deeply saddened, and entirely absorbed by the film. This is easily one of the greatest war films ever made (or, more accurately, one of the greatest antiwar films ever made). Paths of Glory is furiously angry and cynical, but also has a hope for humanity that is deeply touching. The final scene is absolutely perfect - it's both terribly sad and quietly hopeful. A surprising new favorite.

My ratings of Kubrick films:

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey - 10.

2. The Shining - 10.

3. Eyes Wide Shut - 10.

4. Paths of Glory - 10.

5. A Clockwork Orange - 9.5.

6. Dr. Strangelove - 9.5.

7. Full Metal Jacket - 9.

8. Barry Lyndon - 8.

9. Killer's Kiss - 6.