Paths of Glory (*****)

I decided to watch another early Kubrick film, Paths of Glory starring Kirk Douglas. I was really blown away by this movie. The film is very well written and the cinematography is amazing. I don’t want to spoil too much of it but it is based on a true story about a French regiment in WWI that is tried for treason after refusing to take a German position. Douglas plays a captain who is forced to defend his men from the death penalty in a war tribunal with charges of treason. The film is essentially an anti-war film that packs an emotional punch. It explores military bureaucracy, and the disconnect between military leadership and frontline solders.
Kirk Douglas’ performance is wonderful. Perhaps his best. Overall, I think this film is on my short list of best war movies of all time.