Episode 208 - Paths Of Glory

"Paths of Glory" 1957 is a World War I drama that somewhat reflects the Souain Corporals affair a true story of four French soldiers executed in 1915 for failure to follow orders.  The soldiers were exonerated posthumously in 1934.  Director Stanley Kubrick shows the nightmarish horror of trench warfare, brutal treatment of soldiers, and ultimately the corrupt leadership that leads to killing three soldiers.

Kirk Douglas is Colonel Dax regimental commanding officer caught in the grinding wheels of leadership's decisions.  Adolphe Menjou as Major General Broulardwho supports decisions made by Brigadier General Mireauplayed by George Macready that result in three innocent soldiers being executed.  The entire cast is first rate.  The scene with a young singer and many troops is among the most powerful on film.

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