Paths of Glory

WW I. French general Broulard orders his troops to seize the heavily fortified "Ant Hill" from the Germans. General Mireau knows that this action will be suicidal, but is perfectly willing to sacrifice his men to enhance his own reputation. Colonel Dax leads the charge, and the results are appalling. When, after witnessing the slaughter of their comrades, a handful of the French troops refuse to leave the trenches, Mireau cannot admit to himself that the attack was a bad idea from the outset: he convinces himself that loss was due to the cowardice of his men. He demands that three soldiers be selected by lot to be executed as an example. A devastating anti-war statement.