The Path of Glory is a 1934 British "quota quickie" comedy film directed by Dallas Bower and starring Maurice Evans, Valerie Hobson, Felix Aylmer, Henry Daniell and Athole Stewart. It was written by L. Dugarde Peach adapted from his radio play.
Contents
Preservation status
The Path of Glory is missing from the BFI National Archive, and is listed as one of the British Film Institute's "75 Most Wanted" lost films.
Scenario
Two tiny European countries, Thalia and Sardonia, embark on a war. However, both have determined that reparations payments can be more valuable than the spoils of victory -- so both countries are engaging in war hoping to lose it.
Cast
Maurice Evans as Anton Maroni
Valerie Hobson as Maria
Felix Aylmer as President of Thalia
Henry Daniell as King Maximillian
Athole Stewart as General Ferranzi
Stafford Hilliard as Ferraldi
John Deverell as Paul
David Burns as Ginsberg
Frederick Burtwell as Pedro
Harvey Braban as Colonel Conti
Reception
The Daily Film Renter wrote: "Delicious satire of Ruritanian kingdoms both striving to lose war in order to secure the benefits of defeat! Cleverly inverted plot plays havoc with modern economics, and neatly burlesques current military, political and social thought. Exceptionally well acted, effectively directed, and dressed with witty dialogue. Leisurely opening develops on brisker lines, good photography and settings contributing to production that offers delightful entertainment to general run of halls."
Picturegoer wrote: " The trouble here is that the irony is laid on with a shovel and the whole atmosphere is entirely artificial. Subtlety in pictorial development would have achieved the right result, but as it is there is an almost amateurish touch about the production and far too much reliance on dialogue to drive home the arguments. Neither is the acting very impressive; this, too, seems to be tinged with the theatricality that colours the picture as a whole. Settings are adequate and camera work efficient."
Picture Show wrote: "A delightful and amusing picture, designed to make fun of governments in general. Felix Aylmer as the scheming president and Henry Daniell as the wily King give most entertaining performances. Athole Stewart as the general is extremely humorous. The rest of the cast are convincing in their respective parts. Excellent light entertainment. The settings are disappointing, but the photography is good."