Review of Paths of Glory (1957) by Brian B — 18 Mar 2017
When filmmaker Francois Truffaut famously declared it's impossible to make an anti-war film as the action glorifies and portrays the thrill of combat, he couldn't have been referring to this film.
From the opening scene, it's shown that the generals have no concern over human life. This anti-authority concept is extended throughout the film by General Broulard's methods of achieving his immoral goals and the discussions of his worrying philosophies on war and the kangaroo court the prisoners get.
The conversations which make up those scenes stick out due to how upsetting and complex they are in portraying the corruption of the generals. In addition to this, Col. Dax feels so ineffective as the protagonist that it's clear he's a slave to those above him.
Just when it seems like the movie will leave you with a lump in your throat, the magnificent final scene shows that while war can dehumanize you of your virtues, they're still there, waiting to be reawakened.
Regardless of its ending, however, this film can't glorify the thrill of combat as the viewer is thankful they're not at the mercy of the corrupt leaders from the film. Therefore, it remains about as unsettling and powerful as an anti-war film can get.
This review of Paths of Glory (1957) was written by Brian B on 18 March 2017.
Paths of Glory has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
