Kirk Douglas, Ralph Meeker, Adolphe Menjou, George Macready, Wayne Morris
1957-10-25
A commanding officer defends three scapegoats on trial for a failed offensive that occurred within the French Army in 1916.
Kubrick's unflinching look at the dehumanizing effects of war is both a powerful anti-war statement and a meditation on justice and authority. The film's stark black-and-white cinematography and its focus on the plight of ordinary soldiers make it a poignant addition to any film library. Kirk Douglas' performance is compelling, and the courtroom drama is as tense as any noir thriller. It's a departure from my usual selections, yet it speaks to the human condition in a way that's both timeless and urgent.
