Paths of Glory
A commanding officer defends three scapegoats on trial for a failed offensive that occurred within the French Army in 1916.
Critics Sentiment
The three condemned soldiers face the firing squad
General Broulard orders Mireau to attack the Anthill
The film rises dramatically from its slow opening to the masterfully executed battle sequence, then maintains high emotional intensity through the court martial and execution.
Paths of Glory builds steadily from a deliberately paced opening to increasingly powerful sequences showcasing Kubrick's directorial mastery. The film peaks with the universally acclaimed execution scene, widely considered one of cinema's most emotionally devastating moments. Critics consistently praised the film's brutal honesty, masterful craftsmanship, and Kirk Douglas's commanding performance, cementing its status as both a war film masterpiece and an early showcase of Kubrick's genius.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 24
Kirk Douglas
Col. Dax
Ralph Meeker
Cpl. Philippe Paris
Adolphe Menjou
Gen. George Broulard
George Macready
Gen. Paul Mireau
Wayne Morris
Lt. Roget/Singing man
Richard Anderson
Maj. Saint-Auban
Joe Turkel
Pvt. Pierre Arnaud
Christiane Kubrick
German Singer
Jerry Hausner
Proprietor of Cafe
Peter Capell
Narrator of Opening Sequence
Emile Meyer
Father Dupree
Bert Freed
Sgt. Boulanger
Kem Dibbs
Pvt. Lejeune
Timothy Carey
Pvt. Maurice Ferol
Fred Bell
Shell-Shocked Soldier
John Stein
Capt. Rousseau
Harold Benedict
Capt. Nichols
Paul Bös
Maj. Gouderc (uncredited)
James B. Harris
Private in the Attack (uncredited)
Marshall Rainer
Pvt. Duval (uncredited)
Crew
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