Watch The Road to Glory

In 1936, the movie The Road to Glory was released, a war film that starred Fredric March, Warner Baxter, and Lionel Barrymore. The movie was directed by Howard Hawks and was set during World War I. It tells the story of a French regiment in the battle of the Chemin des Dames, a notoriously gruesome trench war. The movie is based on the novel, "Paths of glory" by Humphrey Cobb.

The film begins with soldiers marching through a little French village, which is full of excitement and anticipation. The soldiers are on their way to the front to join the battle. The film follows the journey of the soldiers and the grueling conditions they face as they fight for their country.

The movie portrays the devastating effects of war on the soldiers, their families, and the people they leave behind. It highlights the human cost of war, with scenes of soldiers suffering from injuries, diseases, and mental breakdowns. The film also reflects on the class divide that existed in society during that time, as some soldiers were treated with more respect and dignity than others due to their rank.

Fredric March portrays Captain La Roche, an experienced and thoughtful officer who leads his troops with courage and determination. He tries to keep his men motivated and focuses on their mission, despite the overwhelming odds they face. Warner Baxter plays Lieutenant Roget, a young and naive officer who is eager to prove himself but struggles with the harsh reality of war. Lionel Barrymore portrays a cynical and bitter General commanding the French army.

The movie features impressive battle scenes filled with explosions, gunfire, and hand-to-hand combat. The camera work is exceptional, capturing the action from various angles, including long-range shots of soldiers advancing through no man's land and close-ups of the soldiers' faces in the thick of battle. The film's score enhances the drama and tension of the scenes, further highlighting the intensity of the war.

Despite being a war movie, The Road to Glory also has its share of romance and humor. The movie features a love triangle between Capt. La Roche, a nurse named Marie (played by June Lang), and Marie's fiance (played by Gregory Ratoff), who is also a soldier in the regiment. The humor comes from the camaraderie and banter between the soldiers, who find ways to keep their spirits up despite the bleakness of the war.

The Road to Glory is a well-crafted and engaging movie that accurately portrays the horrors and hardships of war. The movie's themes of sacrifice, duty, and honor are as relevant today as they were in 1936. The performances of March, Baxter, and Barrymore are exceptional, and the film's direction, cinematography, and score make it a classic of its genre.

In conclusion, The Road to Glory is a must-see for anyone who appreciates classic war films or wants to gain a better understanding of the impact of war on soldiers and society. The movie is a testament to the resiliency, courage, and humanity of the soldiers who fought and died in World War I. It is a powerful reminder that war is always a tragedy, but that there is hope and redemption in the bravery and sacrifice of those who fight for their country.