Guide Note

Paths of Glory is an American war film directed by Stanley Kubrick, his fourth feature film.

Fast Facts

1. Director: Stanley Kubrick
2. Producer: James B. Harris
3. Writers: Stanley Kubrick, Jim Thompson, Calder Willingham
4. Distributor: United Artists
5. Release Date: December 25, 1957
6. Running Time: 86 min.
7. Budget: $935,000

Based on a true story, Paths of Glory is about three French soldiers executed for mutiny during World War I.

Their commanding officer, General Mireau (George Macready), sent them on a suicidal mission, which was protested by his men, including General Dax (Kirk Douglas). The attack ends in failure with many casualties.

During the court-martial, Mireau blames his men. Three are chosen from each company and sentenced to death. Despite Dax's attempts to help them, they are executed in a courtyard.

With a strong 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Paths of Glory remains one of the most acclaimed of its time. In 1992, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress because of its historical significance.