What is Paths of Glory about?

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American director Stanley Kubrick — Stanley Kubrick Stanley Kubrick during the filming of *Barry Lyndon* (1975).

Paths of Glory (1957) is a seminal American war film directed by Stanley Kubrick that serves as a powerful critique of military bureaucracy and elitism.1

Set during World War I, the story follows Colonel Dax, played by Kirk Douglas, who leads his men on a suicidal mission against a German position. When the attack fails, the French high command—specifically General Mireau—falsely accuses the soldiers of cowardice to deflect blame for the strategic failure. In a display of systemic injustice, three infantrymen are selected to face a court-martial and execution as a deterrent to others.1

Dax, a former lawyer, attempts to defend his men in a kangaroo court, but the soldiers are ultimately executed. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest antiwar movies ever produced, though its provocative portrayal of the French military led to its delayed release in several European countries.1