Stanley Kubrick: Paths of Glory Discussion

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Join movie club member Nick M for the next film in a series focusing on the works of Stanley Kubrick! Responsible for films like 2001: A Space Odessey, Full Metal Jacket, and The Shining; he influenced directors like Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Woody Allen, George Lucas, and Paul Thomas Anderson. The next film we're looking at is Paths of Glory (1957). Here's how it works:

We'll meet at Lucky Lab in SE at 4pm (map), we'll have a sign at our table (be sure to check outside just in case the weather is nice).
Grab a drink and we'll spend some time discussing the film with us (NOTE: Just like a book club, we watch the movie before we meet, streaming links below).

Movie Spotlight: Paths of Glory
Paths of Glory is a 1957 American anti-war film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the novel of the same name by Humphrey Cobb. The film is set during World War I and tells the story of Colonel Dax, a French army officer who is ordered to lead a suicidal attack on a German position. When the attack fails, Dax is forced to defend three of his soldiers who are accused of cowardice and face a court-martial. The film explores themes of military bureaucracy, the psychological effects of war, and the dehumanizing nature of military discipline.

The film received widespread critical acclaim and is now considered a classic of American cinema. Paths of Glory was nominated for one Academy Award, for Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium, and although it did not win, it has since been recognized as one of the greatest films of all time. In 1992, the film was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, and it has been named as one of the greatest films of all time by numerous publications, including Sight & Sound and Rolling Stone. The film's influence can still be seen in many modern war movies, and its powerful anti-war message continues to resonate with audiences today.

About Stanley Kubrick
Stanley Kubrick (1928–1999) was an American filmmaker and photographer, widely regarded as one of the greatest directors of all time. Born and raised in New York City, Kubrick displayed a keen interest in literature, photography, and film from a young age. After graduating from high school, he taught himself all aspects of film production and direction. His films spanned various genres and were often adaptations of novels or short stories. Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail, innovative cinematography, extensive set design, and dark humor set him apart. Notable works include “Paths of Glory” (1957), an anti-war film, and the historical epic “Spartacus” (1960), both collaborations with actor Kirk Douglas. In 1961, Kubrick left the U.S., settling in England, where he continued to create groundbreaking films. His science fiction masterpiece “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) earned him an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and is considered one of the greatest films ever made.

Kubrick’s artistic control extended to writing, editing, color grading, promotion, and exhibition. His perfectionism led to painstaking research, innovative staging, and multiple retakes of scenes, sometimes frustrating his actors. His legacy endures through films that broke new ground, leaving an indelible mark on cinema.

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Tips:

Haven't seen the movie in a while? You're in for a treat - try to watch the movie sometime before we meet (streaming options). Just like a book club we don't watch the movie at our meetup, just discuss it. You don't have to watch the movie to join us, but it'll be more fun if you can
I usually take a few notes while I watch to keep from forgetting the most interesting stuff. If you think of some interesting discussion topics while you watch, bring 'em with you!

Movie Resources: