Paths Of Glory | Pride Glorified Amidst War | The Critique

Paths Of Glory is very much similar to Stanley Kramer’s courtroom drama Judgment Of Nuremberg in terms of intensity and conclusion. Based on a  novel by same name and set during the gloomy hours of WW1, Paths Of Glory is an example for both an anti-war film and a courtroom drama. Stanley Kubrick’s probably most uncontroversial film stars Kirk Douglas in the leading role of Col. Dax who stands for the right against the establishment and thousand year old military tactics.

 

Ambitious superior Gen. Mireau order Col. Dax to conduct a suicide mission against a German stronghold – Anthill. Germans are in an advantageous position. Its mockery of common sense to conduct the mission but Dax is forced to follow the orders. The mission fails. First wave of troops are bulldozed. Second wave decides to let common sense prevail and refuse to move ahead. Mireau label the troops as cowards. Three officers are selected for execution on behalf of entire troops to set an example for all. Dax fights for them and loses the battle as their fate is sealed before their parade infront of Jury.

 

Film clearly highlights the anti-war message. Some of the statements stated must have generated heat during those days. This film boasts of strong performances especially by Kirk Douglas. His portrayal of Col. Dax is simple brilliant. On technical aspect the film is a milestone. The scene in trench, the courtroom and the execution of fallen officers will remain long in memories.

 

Kubrick made this film as a closure to writer’s longing dream to tell the story to masses so that madness of war can be curtailed. Kubrick presented the story so well that generations would know what war can do. There is no glory in war, it lies in doing the right thing. However, I am not sure if people who can control wars have this film in their libraries or not…

 

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh