One of the greatest films ever made.

Rating: 10/10 (29 May 2000)

'Paths of Glory' is a masterpiece directed by Stanley Kubrick when he was still in his 20's. This film demonstrates that a tight plot and strong characters are infinitely more important than special effects, gratuitous violence, profanity, and sex. Don't get me wrong, if the latter are use sparingly and judiciously then they can add a lot to a movie. The problem with too many films produced today is that they rely on these devices as crutches to support what is otherwise and inferior plot/film.
'Paths of Glory' demonstrates what would become classic Kubrick trademarks. For example, the wonderful long tracking shot of Colonel Dax (Kirk Douglas) walking through the trenches with the camera following immediately in front of him as he progresses. Another example is the way Kubrick chooses a very wide angle far away view of the court martial proceedings interspersed with close ups of the major participants.
It's a shame this movie hasn't received the wide acclaim and respect that it deserves. I have looked for this movie in many video rental stores including Blockbuster and almost none of them carry it. They will have plenty of copies of silly comedies or markedly inferior dramas. Yet, when they have the opportunity to put even one copy of this movie in the classic section (where it certainly belongs) they choose not to do so. Unbelievable!
If you haven't seen this movie, please do so. Even if you have to buy your own copy. It's that good.