Original subtitles

War began between Germany and France on August 3, 1914.

Five weeks later, the German army had smashed its way to within 18 miles of Paris.

There, the battered French miraculously rallied their forces at the Marne River...

and in a series of unexpected counterattacks drove the Germans back.

The front was stabilized, hen shortly afterward developed...

into a continuous line of heavily fortified trenches...

zigzagging their way 500 miles from the English Channel to the Swiss frontier.

By 1916, after two grisly years of trench warfare...

the battle lines had changed very little.

Successful attacks were measured in hundreds of yards...

and paid for in lives by hundreds of thousands.

- General Broulard sir.

- Hello George, how are you? - Paul...

wonderful seeing you again, really wonderful.

Well, this splendid, superb.

Well, I've tried to create a pleasant atmosphere in which to work.

Well, you succeeded marvelously. I wish I had your taste in carpets.

- And pictures. - You're much too kind George, much too kind.

- Sit down George. - Thank you.

I really haven't done very much, the place is much the same as it was when I moved in.

Paul, I've come to see you about something big.

It's top secret.

And must go no further than your chief of staff and not to him...

- unless you can trust his discretion. - Of course.

A group of armies is forming on this front for an offensive very soon.

Headquarters is determined to make a complete breakthrough.

- Why you smiling? - I'm really sorry.

I thought for just a moment I knew what you were going to say please go on.

I never knew you were a mind reader, what you think I was about to say?

- Something about the Anthill. - You are a mind reader.

Well, it is a key position, it's in my sector.

To be perfectly honest I've heard some talk.

You know, there's nothing really secret around headquarters.

Well, what do you think?

Well, it's the key to the whole German position in this sector.

They've held on to it for a year now...

and it looks as though they'll hold on to it for another year if they want to.

Paul, I have formal orders to take the Anthill no later than the 10th.

That's the day after tomorrow.

That comes pretty close to being ridiculous, don't you think?

I don't imagine I'd be here if I really thought that.

Paul, if there's one man in this army who can do this for me, it's you.

It's out of the question George, absolutely out of the question.

My division was cut to pieces.

What's left of it is in no position to even hold the Anthill, let alone take it.

I'm sorry, but that's the truth.

Well Paul...

it's something else I wanted to tell you.

However, I'm sure that you'll misunderstand my motives in mentioning it.

- What was it? - Oh, you'd be bound to misunderstand.

However, as your friend I guess I should tell you.

- What you trying to say George? - Paul...

talk around headquarters is that you are being considered for the 12th Corps.

- The 12th Corps? - Yes and with that, another star.

Now, I've pushed it all I can.

12th Corps needs a fighting general and you're overdue on that star.

We both know that your record is good enough...

for you to refuse this assignment on the grounds you've stated.

No one would question your opinion. They simply get someone else to do the job.

So you shouldn't let this influence your opinion Paul.

- Oh, I'm sorry, have a cognac? - No, thanks Paul, not before dinner.

George, I'm responsible for the lives of 8,000 men.

What is my ambition against that?

What is my reputation in comparison to that?

My men come first of all George and those men know it too.

I know that they do.

You see George, those men know that I would never let them down.

That goes without saying.

The life of one of those soldiers means more to me than all the...

stars and decorations and honors in France.

So...

you think this attack is absolutely beyond the ability of your men at this time?

I didn't say that George.

Nothing is beyond those men, once their fighting spirit is aroused.

But Paul, I don't want to push you into it if you think it's ill advised.

Don't worry George, you couldn't do that if you tried.

Of course, artillery would make an enormous difference.

- What artillery support can you give me? - Well, I'll see.

What about replacements?

We'll see what we can do, but I feel sure that you can get along with you have.

- Might just do it. - Oh Paul.

I knew that I was right to come to you. You are the man to take the Anthill.

- About that star is concerned. - That had nothing to do with my decision.

- If anything, would sway me the other way. - I realize that perfectly Paul.

Now, when do you say you see this coming off?

- No later than the day after tomorrow. - We just might do it.

Hello there soldier, ready to kill more Germans?

- Yes sir. - What's your name soldier?

Sir, Private Ferol, Company A.

- You married, Private? - No sir.

- Well, I'll bet your mother is proud of you. - Yes sir.

Well, carry on Private and good luck to you.

Yes sir, thank you sir.

- Good morning General. - Good morning.

Hello there soldier, ready to kill more Germans?

- Yes sir. - Working over your rifle I see.

Well, that's the way, it's a soldier's best friend.

You be good to it and it'll always be good to you.

Yes sir.

Well, good luck to you soldier.

- Carry on. - Thank you sir.

Hello there soldier.

Ready to kill more Germans?

- Well, is everything all right soldier? - All right?

- Yes sir, I'm all right. - Good fellow, are you married soldier?

Married? Me married?

- Yes, have you got a wife? - A wife? Have I got a wife?

Sir, he's a bit shell shocked.

I beg your pardon Sergeant, there is no such thing as shell shock.

- Have you got a wife soldier? - My wife?

My wife? Yes, I have a wife. I'm never going to see her again.

- Going to be killed. - Get a grip on yourself.

- You're acting like a coward. - I am a coward sir.

Snap out of it soldier.

Sergeant, I want you to arrange...

for the immediate transfer of this baby out of my regiment.

I won't have other brave men contaminated by him.

- Yes sir. - Carry on Sergeant.

You were right sir, this sort of thing can spread if isn't checked.

You know General, I'm convinced that these tours of yours...

have an incalculable effect upon the morale of these men.

In fact, I think the fighting spirit of the 701st derives from it.

No, no Major, that spirit was just born in them.

The general is coming sir.

- Always a pleasure to see you Colonel. - I'm honored General.

It's our privilege entirely.

Well, quite a neat little spot you have here.

I reserve comment on the neatness sir, but it is little.

Pretty shy on seating accommodations though.

More than enough for me. I never got the habit of sitting.

- Like to be on my feet. - Keep on the move.

I can vouch for that Colonel.

I can hardly get the general behind a desk long enough to sign an order.

Well, that's the way I am, you know Dax.

I can't understand these armchair officers.

Fellows trying to fight a war from behind a desk.

Waving papers at the enemy.

Worrying about whether a mouse is going to run up their pants leg.

I don't know, General. If I had the choice between mice and Mausers.

- I think I'd take the mice every time. - You never make me believe that Colonel.

Seriously though, if a man's a ninny...

let him put on a dress and hide under the bed.

But if he wants to be a soldier, then, by heavens, he's got to be one.

He's got to fight and he can't do that unless he's where the fighting is.

That's my credo.

I think I have to agree with you, presenting your case so convincingly sir.

And you've never failed to live up to it sir.

I imagine you'd like a look around, wouldn't you?

- Yes Colonel. - Well, here's something to see.

The Anthill, about as good a view as you can get without actually being there.

Well, that won't be long now, will it?

Ah, yeah.

Well, I've seen much more formidable objectives.

Much, much worse.

Not something we can grab and run away with but certainly pregnable.

- Sounds kind of odd though, doesn't it? - Why?

Well, like something to do with giving birth.

Oh yes. Quite. You're right on your toes this morning Colonel, even sharper than usual.

But we mustn't forget the colonel was perhaps the foremost criminal lawyer in all France.

- Of course General. - Gentlemen, you're both much too kind.

Tell me Colonel, how did your relief come off last night?

- We drew some artillery, 29 casualties sir. - Yes, I noticed it on the road in.

Utterly inexcusable, stupid.

All swarmed together like a bunch of flies, just waiting for someone to swat them.

Well, they never learn, it seems.

They get in a tight spot under heavy fire, gang up every time.

Herd instinct, I suppose. Kind of a lower animal sort of thing.

Kind of a human sort of thing, it seems to me or don't you make a...

distinction between the two Major?

Oh yes, very regrettable, of course, very. Yes indeed.

Major, would you be kind enough to excuse us for a few minutes?

Yes sir, of course.

Colonel...

Well Colonel, what do you think of it?

- What I think of what sir? - The Anthill.

Colonel, your regiment is going to take the Anthill tomorrow.

You know the condition of my men sir.

Naturally men are going to have to be killed, possibly a lot of them.

They absorb bullets and shrapnel...

and by doing so make it possible for others to get through.

- What support will we have? - Have none to give you.

What sort of casualties do you anticipate sir?

Say, five percent killed by our own barrage. It's a very generous allowance.

Ten percent more in getting through no man's-land.

And 30% more getting through the wire.

That leaves 65% with the worst part of the job over.

Let's say another 25% in actually taking the Anthill.

We still left with a force more than adequate to hold it.

General, you saying that more than half of my men will be killed.

Yes, it's a terrible price to pay Colonel, but we will have the Anthill.

- But will we sir? - I'm depending on you Colonel.

All France is depending on you.

Am I amusing you Colonel?

I'm not a bull General, I don't need a flag waved in front of me to get me to charge.

I don't think I like your comparison of the flag of France to a bullfighter's cape.

Meant nothing disrespectful to the flag of France sir.

Patriotism may be old fashioned, but show me a patriot and I'll show you an honest man.

Not everyone is always thought so.

Samuel Johnson had something else to say about patriots.

And what was that, may I ask?

- Nothing really. - What you mean nothing really?

Well sir, nothing really important.

Colonel, when I ask a question, it's always important. Now, who was this man?

Samuel Johnson.

All right now, what did he have to say about patriotism?

He said it was the last refuge of a scoundrel sir. Sorry, meant nothing personal.

You're tired Dax, you're very tired.

It's you who are exhausted, not your men and it's my fault.

I've given you one impossible task after another.

You need rest...

- you need it badly and never would either. - I haven't said anything about rest sir.

Therefore, you not going to have any say so about it Colonel.

As from right now, I'm ordering you on indefinite furlough.

General, you can't take me away from my men...

- you can't do that to me sir. - Not to you Dax, for you.

- For your good and for the good of your men. - The good of my men sir?

If a commanding officer lacks confidence, what can we expect of his men?

Naturally, I don't want to relieve you but I must've your enthusiastic support.

Not once have you said that your men can take the Anthill.

We'll take the Anthill.

If any soldiers in the world can take it...

we'll take the Anthill.

And when you do, your men will be relieved and get a long rest.

Corporal Paris and Private Lejeune reporting sir.

You took your time about it.

We prepared as quick as we could sir, we had to alert the sentries.

All right. You men, at ease.

This is a reconnaissance patrol, German wire,

machine gun posts, identification of bodies.

There will only be the three of us, and we're to avoid a fight if we can.

We go out to the left and we come back through Post 6 on the right.

Is everything all clear at Post 6?

All the sentries have been warned up to here.

Number 6 will send up flares at 10 minute intervals starting at 0400.

- I wanted them every five minutes. - I told them that sir.

The sergeant says every five minutes is too much, he says it's certain to draw artillery.

Quite a strategist this sergeant, what's his name?

I don't know sir.

All right. You men wait outside, I'll join you in a minute.

- Would you mind telling us the password sir? - Calais.

Yes sir.

- He's fortifying himself. - Smell like heaven.

I can always tell when he's had a few, he gets sarcastic.

Well, at least he could've passed it around, the pig.

Hey, what's he got against you anyway?

We went to school together before the war.

He thinks I don't have enough respect for him, he's right.

If you gentlemen are ready.

- Colonel. - Everything clear and understood?

Yes sir.

The lane through our wire is right out in front here.

Machine guns are pointing at the opening.

- Good luck men. - Thank you sir.

All right men, let's go.

- What's that? - I don't know.

Lejeune, move out and look that over, we'll cover you.

- Split up a night patrol? - Move out Lejeune.

- Don't like this, let's get out of here. - We haven't given him enough time.

- We wait any longer, they'll get us too. - We got to wait for him.

He must be dead, where is he?

Roget.

- Well? - Surprised Lieutenant?

Yes I am, happily surprised. I thought you'd been killed.

You didn't wait around to find out, did you Lieutenant?

Now, look here. What do you mean?

I mean you ran like a rabbit after you killed Lejeune.

Killed Lejeune? What are you talking about?

I don't think I like your tone.

You're speaking to an officer, remember that.

Oh well, I must be mistaken then sir. An officer wouldn't do that.

A man wouldn't do it, only a thing would.

A sneaky, booze guzzling, yellow bellied rat, with a bottle for a brain and streak...

- of spit where his spine ought to be. - That's enough Corporal.

You've got yourself into a mess Lieutenant.

Oh, I have, have I? Well, you got yourself in a worse one.

First, general insubordination. Second, threatening your superior officer.

Third, refusing to obey an order and inciting others to do the same.

Now, how do you think those charges are going to look on paper?

Not half as bad as these.

Endangering the lives of your men through recklessness, drunk on duty.

Wanton murder of one of your own men and cowardice in the face of the enemy.

Philippe, have you ever tried to bring charges against an officer?

It's my word against yours, you know?

And whose word you think they're going to believe?

Or let, let me put it another way, whose word you think they're going to accept?

Now, I'll tell you what I'm willing to do.

So far, all I have written in this report is that you...

and Lejeune were killed while out on patrol.

I'll fix this to read that you made your way...

back after becoming separated during the skirmish.

- That'll end the matter once and for all. - You killed Lejeune you now that, don't you?

- I'm sorry, it was an accident. - You threw the grenade that killed him.

I'd give anything in the world if it hadn't have happened and that's the truth.

Honestly, I know you don't like me, but what kind of a man do you think I am?

- Oh, good morning Colonel. - At ease men.

I've been waiting for your report Lieutenant.

- Well, I think we found out a thing or two. - Everything go well?

- No sir, Private Lejeune was killed. - How it happen?

- It's all right here in the report sir. - Well, let's have it.

Oh, it isn't quite finished yet sir.

That's all Corporal, you did a good night's work.

Should feel very proud of yourself, go get some sleep.

Yes sir.

- How do you lose Lejeune? - Machine gun fire sir.

He coughed, almost got us all killed.

Finish the report and get it to my dugout immediately.

Yes sir.

The artillery starts at 0515.

First Battalion will move out at 0530.

When the leading elements have cleared the German wire...

the second wave, consisting of the Second and Third Battalions...

minus two companies in reserve ill move out.

In no case later than 0540.

Well, that's it gentlemen, are there any questions?

Sir, is 15 minutes of artillery preparation all that we can expect?

The feeling is that any more than that will give them too much time to get organized.

What's weather supposed to be like tomorrow sir?

Too good.

- No chance of rain or fog? - Forecast is for sun all day.

If, perhaps I should say when we take the Anthill...

how long do we have to hold it before we can expect any support?

Well, General Mireau, who by the way, will be personally observing the attack is...

promised us support from the 73th by sundown tomorrow which...

means, of course, that we'll have to hold all day.

Are there any more questions?

Well gentlemen, good luck and I'm sure you'll come through as you always do.

Let's get some sleep.

I'm not afraid of dying tomorrow, only of getting killed.

- That's as clear as mud. - What?

Which would you rather be done in by, a bayonet or a machine gun?

- Oh, a machine gun, naturally. - Naturally, that's just my point.

They're both pieces of steel ripping into your guts.

Only the machine gun is quicker, cleaner and less painful, isn't it?

What is that prove?

It proves that most of us are more afraid of getting hurt than of getting killed.

Look at Bernard.

He panics when it comes to gas, but gas doesn't bother me a bit.

He's seen photos of gas cases. Doesn't mean anything to me.

But I'll tell you something though.

I'd hate like the devil to be without my tin hat.

But on the other hand, I don't mind not having a tin hat for my tail.

- Why is that? - You ought to, because...

- Because I know a wound to the head... - That's where your brains are.

Will hurt much more than one in the tail.

The tail is just meat but the head. Ah, the head is all bone.

- Ah, speak for yourself. - Tell me this.

Aside from the bayonet, what are you most afraid of?

- High explosives. - Exactly, it's the same with me.

Because, because I know that it can chew you up worse than anything else.

Look, it's just like I'm trying to tell you, if you're really afraid of dying...

you'd be living in a funk all the rest of your life because you...

know you got to go someday, any day.

And besides, if it's death that you're really afraid of...

why should you care about what it is that kills you?

Ah, you're too smart for me Professor, all I know is nobody wants to die.

Through to Division sir, through to Polygon.

Everything quiet, all units report themselves ready.

Zero minus two.

May I offer you gentlemen some cognac?

- Thank you General. - Thank you sir.

After you sir.

To France.

Minus 15, 14, 13...

ten...

nine, eight, seven, six, five, four...

three, two, one, zero.

- Sergeant, where's B Company? - Don't know sir.

Where in heaven's name are they?

- On the left sir. - Where are the rest?

Zero plus one and they're still in the trenches, they're not advancing.

- Yes sir. - Miserable cowards, they're not advancing.

The barrage is getting away from them, they're still in the trenches.

Yes sir.

- Captain Nichols. - Yes sir?

Order the 75 to commence firing on our own positions.

Captain, do you fail to comprehend the meaning of my order?

No sir, but I respectfully ask to...

Captain, do you fail to comprehend the meaning of my order?

- No sir. - Then, carry it out Captain.

Yes sir.

Hello Polygon, this is Division.

Batteries 1 and 2 commence firing...

on coordinates 32-58-78.

Batteries 1 and 2 to commence firing on coordinates 32-58...

78, over.

General, the battery commander reports those are our own positions.

- He says it must be a mistake. - Confirm the order Captain.

Yes sir, there is no mistake. The order is confirmed.

Battery commander respectfully reports he cannot execute such an order...

unless it is in writing and signed by the general, over.

General, battery commander respectfully reports he cannot execute such an order...

unless it is in writing and signed by the general.

- Give me that phone. - Yes sir.

- General Mireau speaking. - Battery commander speaking sir.

The troops are mutinying, refusing to advance.

Fire as ordered until further notice.

With all respect sir, you have no right to order me to shoot down my own men...

unless you are willing to take full and undivided responsibility for it.

Captain Rousseau, are you going to obey my order?

I must've a written order before I can execute such a command sir.

Supposing you're killed, then where will I be?

You'll be in front of a firing squad tomorrow morning, that's where you'll be.

Hand over your command and report yourself under arrest to my headquarters.

Roget.

Lieutenant Roget, why are your men still in here?

Impossible sir, major Vignon is dead.

Get these men out of the trenches, come on.

Let's get ready for another try, get these men out of here.

I've tried three times, look at all the casualties.

All right, let's give it another try. Come on, let's give it another try.

It's impossible sir, all the men are falling back.

Sir, I respectfully submit to the colonel.

I beg you pardon, your remarks to me were very unfair sir.

It's just impossible, it's just impossible.

General, according to first reports, the attack has failed all along the line.

Men are falling back to our own trenches.

Major Saint Auban, arrange for the immediate relief of the 701st Regiment.

Have them sent to the Chateau d'Aigle. Have Colonel Dax report to my headquarters.

Major Couderc, assemble a general court martial.

Have it ready to meet at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon.

If those little sweethearts won't face German bullets, they'll face French ones.

I ordered an attack. Your troops refused to attack.

Our troops did attack sir, but they could make no headway.

Because they didn't try Colonel, I saw it myself.

Half of your men never left the trenches.

Third of my men were pinned down because the fire was so intense.

Don't quibble over fractions Colonel.

The fact remains that a good part of your men never left their own trenches.

Colonel Dax, I'm going to have 10 men from each company in your regiment...

tried under penalty of death for cowardice.

- Penalty of death? - For cowardice.

They have skimmed milk in their veins instead of blood.

Then it's the reddest milk I've ever seen, my trenches are soaked...

- with that red skimmed milk. - That's just about enough out of you Col..

I'm not going to mince words with...

- stand on protocol. - Colonel Dax, if you continue in this...

manner, I shall have to place you under arrest.

I believe the colonel has a point, even though he makes it rather bluntly.

This is not a trial, but it does bear certain aspects of one.

And Colonel Dax, technically, is cast in the role of the defense.

In view of the gravity of the charges a court of law would...

grant him all possible latitude in presenting his case.

Latitude is one thing, insubordination another.

I am merely offering an opinion General. Please do not feel constrained to accept it.

I am perfectly willing to accept it General Broulard.

I'm sorry sir, I certainly didn't intend to be insubordinate.

My only aim is to remind you of the heroism these men have shown on...

every occasion in the past.

We're not talking about the past. We're talking about the present.

But don't you see sir? They're not cowards.

So if some of them didn't leave the trenches, it must've been because it was impossible.

They were ordered to attack, it was their duty to obey that order.

We can't leave it up to the men to decide when an order is possible or not.

If was impossible...

the only proof of that would be their dead bodies lying at the bottom of the trenches.

They're scum Colonel.

The whole rotten regiment.

A pack of sneaking, whining, tail dragging curs.

- Do you really believe that sir? - Yes, I do, that's exactly what I believe.

And what's more, it's an incontestable fact.

Then why not shoot the entire regiment?

- I'm perfectly serious. - Oh no Colonel...

you're missing the point entirely.

We don't want to slaughter the French army, all we want to do is to set an example.

Oh well, if it's an example you want, then take me.

- Take you? - Yes sir, if an example you want, one...

man will do as well as a hundred.

The logical choice is the officer most responsible for the attack.

Come on Colonel, I think you're overwrought. This is not a question of officers.

Paul...

we don't want to overdo this thing. Suppose we just make it a dozen.

I was talking of a hundred men and now we're down to 12.

Paul, let's not haggle over this thing anymore.

Let's get it settled once and for all so that we can all live with it.

Well, perhaps I was a bit too anxious to see proper justice meted out.

I spent my entire life in the army, I've always tried to be true to my principles.

That's the only mistake I can ever be accused of.

I'll settle for this.

Have the company commanders...

select one man from each company in the first wave, three in all.

Well, that's very reasonable of you Paul.

The court-martial will meet at the chateau at 3 o'clock this afternoon.

- Will that be convenient for you General? - Oh, I won't be there Paul.

You won't be there?

No, I think it best that you handle this matter on your own.

- Probably so. - General Mireau...

if it's at all possible, I'd like to be appointed counsel for the accused.

I'll take the matter into consideration.

Oh, we can permit that, can't we Paul? Of course we can, consider it settled Colonel.

- Thank you sir. - Well...

Noon straight up Paul, hope that you can stay for lunch Colonel.

George, I'm afraid the colonel won't have time.

Don't deny it Paul, you've been hiding this man.

Keeping him for your own, I think that was very selfish of you.

Thank you for your courtesy General, but I'm afraid...

there isn't much time between now and 3 o'clock.

Of course Colonel, I shall look forward to the pleasure of seeing you again.

- Yes Captain, what is it? - You ordered me to report to you here sir.

- Captain Rousseau, battery commander sir. - Yes, yes, of course.

I wanted to speak to you about some of your shells falling short.

I haven't time to go into it now.

Report back to your command until further orders.

Yes sir.

- Bad stuff, demoralizes the men. - I quite agree with you.

And the best solution is to shelve him to another outfit.

A court of inquiry ought to roast him a bit first.

Well, in cases like this, shells falling short, I, I always try to avoid an inquiry.

It gets around among the men and makes a bad impression.

No, shelving will be the best discipline for him in my opinion.

- Well, perhaps you're right. - Oh, would you excuse me for a moment?

A regimental matter I want to mention to the colonel.

- I'll join you in the dining room. - Splendid, in a moment.

That will be Captain Sancy, Captain Renouart and Lieutenant Roget.

Yes sir.

Have them meet me at regimental headquarters in half an hour.

- Yes sir. - Colonel Dax.

- Yes sir. - I'd like a word with you.

Certainly sir.

- Let's be sensible about this. - Sensible sir?

Listen to me Dax, drop this fancy talk with me, understand?

General Broulard seems to think you're funny. I don't.

- Now, I want you to drop this affair. - I beg your pardon sir, is that an order?

Colonel Dax, when this mess is cleaned up, I'll break you.

I'll find an excuse and I'll break you to the ranks, I'll ruin you.

And it'll be just what you deserve.

Showing such little loyalty to your commanding officer.

That's all Colonel.

Detail, halt.

General Mireau feels that the attack on the Anthill yesterday morning...

failed because of an inadequate effort on the part of the First Battalion.

Each of you is to select one man from your company...

place him under arrest and have him ready to appear before a general court-martial...

no later than 1500 hours this afternoon.

The charge is cowardice in the face of the enemy.

You have your orders gentlemen, let's carry them out.

But Lieutenant Roget killed Lejeune on that patrol. And then..

Blackmailed me into keeping quiet about the whole thing.

- That's why he picked me. - Corporal, I understand your feelings.

But that story has nothing to do with the charges you're being tried for.

- Don't you believe me sir? - Yes, I do.

But who else will? You got no witnesses.

Besides, such charges against an officer would only antagonize the court.

When we get clear of this, I'm going into the story of that patrol again.

Sir, in my case Captain Renouart had the sergeant draw lots.

I was picked purely by chance.

You're lucky, look at me.

I was just picked because Captain Sancy said I was a social undesirable.

- Me, a social undesirable Colonel. - I didn't act like a coward.

- Picking by lots, is that fair? - Neither did I Major Vignon.

Gentlemen, you all got to understand that the reason you were picked is immaterial.

Whatever the reason, you're on trial for your lives.

Stick to the stories you've told me and don't let the prosecutor shake you out of them.

Now remember, you'll be soldiers in the presence of superior officers.

So act like what you are. Soldiers.

And brave ones at that.

Now, I've been in the room you'll be sitting in.

The afternoon sun will be in your faces, so...

don't let it seem as if you're dropping your eyes in a hangdog manner.

When you answer questions, look the judges in the eye.

Don't whine, plead or make speeches, that's my job.

Simple statements, short...

but make them so they can be heard all over the room.

And try not to repeat yourselves. I'll do that for you when I sum up.

Now, we haven't much time.

The court-martial begins in about an hour, and I've got notes to look at.

Good luck.

- Thank you sir. - Colonel sir.

On the left, ho.

Detail, halt.

Prisoners, right face.

On the left, ho.

On the left, ho.

Left face.

Court-martial is open, prisoners may be seat.

This is a general court-martial, we shall...

therefore dispense with unnecessary formalities.

These men are charged with cowardice in the face of the enemy...

and will be tried for that offense.

- Mr. Prosecutor. - Call the accused, private Ferol.

Mr. President...

will the prosecutor question the witnesses without even reading the indictment?

Please don't take up the court's time with technicalities.

The indictment is lengthy,

- and there's no point in reading it. - Well, the defense has a right to know...

- the exact accusations. - The indictment is that the accused show...

cowardice in the face of the enemy during the attack on the Anthill.

Proceed Mr.Prosecutor.

Call the accused, private Ferol.

- Private Ferol. - Yes sir?

Were you in the first wave during the attack on the Anthill?

Yes sir.

- Did you refuse to advance? - No sir.

- Did you advance? - Yes sir.

How far did you advance?

To about the middle of no man's land sir.

Then what did you do?

There were machine gun bullets landing all around.

Answer the question, what did you do?

Well...

- I saw that me and Meyer sir... - I didn't ask you what you saw.

The court has no concern with your visual experiences.

- My what sir? - Prisoner will reply to the question.

Yes sir, what question was it?

You advanced to the middle of no man's land, what did you do then?

- Then sir? - You go back or forward?

- I went back sir. - In other words private Ferrol...

- you retreated, - Yes sir.

That's all. The accused may return to his seat.

Just a minute.

Mr. President, I'd like to question the witness if I may.

- Proceed Colonel. - Thank you.

Now, Private Ferol, when you reached the middle of no man's land...

- you were alone with Private Meyer? - Yes sir.

- What happened to the rest of your company? - Well, I don't know sir.

I guess the rest of them had been killed or wounded.

And you found yourself in the middle of no man's land alone with Private Meyer.

Yes sir.

Why didn't you attack the Anthill single handed?

- Why didn't you storm the Anthill alone? - Just me and Meyer? You're kidding sir.

Yes, I'm kidding, private Ferol, thank you. That's all.

I don't see the point of this line of questioning.

Well, I'm attempting to indicate sir, the utter...

absurdity of the line of questioning used by the prosecutor.

Mr. Prosecutor.

So you freely admit private Ferol, that you retreated.

Yes sir, me and Meyer both.

I knew we should've took Anthill but we came on back.

That's all.

The accused may return to his seat.

Private Arnaud, did you advance?

Yes sir, until I was ordered back to the trenches by Captain Renouart.

- How far did you advance? - Into the wire sir.

- The enemy wire, I suppose. - No sir, was our wire.

You mean to tell me that you didn't advance any further than our wire?

No sir, I didn't.

How far would you say that was? How many meters?

- Well, I advanced as far as I could. - How many meters?

- Not many. - Not many?

Now Private Arnaud, before you were ordered back...

did you urge your fellow soldiers forward?

Most of them were dead or wounded before they got three steps beyond the trenches.

- Reply to the question. - I didn't urge them on, no sir.

Thank you.

Private Arnaud, at ease please.

Aside from your sad failure to give throat to spirited battle cries...

was your behavior different in any respect from that of the other men in your company?

- Objection, that's a matter of conjecture. - Sustained.

Did any men in your company get beyond our wire?

No sir.

Is it true that you've been designated a coward...

simply and purely because you drew a slip of paper marked I?

- Yes sir. - I don't see that that's significant.

It's accepted practice in the French army to pick examples by lot.

And since this entire company advanced only a few meters...

picking by lot was eminently fair in this case.

Well, I'd like to point out that this soldier has distinguished himself...

in some of the bloodiest battles of the war.

With the court's permission I'll read citations for...

bravery that he's already earned on two occasions.

First, citations in the Orders in the Army for bravery...

That's immaterial Colonel.

The accused is not being tried for his former bravery but for his recent cowardice.

Medals are no defense.

- May I call witnesses to his character? - You may not.

But you may call witnesses to the effect that he reached the German wire.

Mr. President...

no one in the entire regiment got anywhere near the German wire, including myself.

Call the next accused, if you're through Colonel.

Thank you.

Prisoner may return to his seat.

So you never even left the trenches.

- No sir. - That's all.

Corporal Paris, why didn't you leave the trenches?

Major Vignon was shot and fell back on top of me sir and knocked me cold.

And were you lying unconscious in the trenches during the entire attack?

- Yes sir. - That's all.

Have you any witnesses to that?

No sir. I guess everybody was too busy to notice me.

And there were so many others lying dead anyway.

- But you have no witnesses. - No sir.

I only have a rather large cut on my head sir.

That could've been self-inflicted later.

Thank you, you may stand down.

Mr. Prosecutor, you can make your plea now.

Gentlemen of the court...

this case speaks for itself.

All of us witnessed the regrettable attack yesterday morning.

And I submit that that attack...

was a stain on the flag of France.

A blot on the honor of every man, woman and child in the French nation.

It is to us that the sad, distressing...

repellant duty falls gentlemen.

I ask this court to find the accused guilty.

And impose the penalties prescribed by the Code of Military Justice.

Thank you Mr. Prosecutor.

Colonel, would you like to make your plea?

Gentlemen of the court, there are times...

when I'm ashamed to be a member of the human race and this is one such occasion.

It's impossible for me to summarize the case for the defense since the...

court never allowed me a reasonable opportunity to present my case.

Are you protesting the authenticity of this court?

Yes sir.

I protest against being prevented from introducing...

evidence that I consider vital to the defense.

The prosecution presented no witnesses.

There has never been a written indictment of charges made against the defendants.

And lastly, I protest against the fact...

that no stenographic records of this trial have been kept.

The attack yesterday morning was no stain on the honor of France.

And certainly no disgrace to the fighting men of this nation.

But this court-martial is such a stain and such a disgrace.

The case made against these men is a mockery of all human justice.

Gentlemen of the court, to find these men guilty...

would be a crime to haunt each of you till the day you die.

I can't believe that the noblest impulse of man.

His compassion for another can be completely dead here.

Therefore, I humbly beg you...

show mercy to these men.

The accused will be escorted back to the guardroom, the hearing is closed.

The court will now retire to deliberate.

There'll be a guard of six men under arms.

Rifles loaded, bayonets fixed. Two men to each prisoner.

Any sign of trouble, the prisoners will be instantly covered...

and if the trouble doesn't subside at once, the prisoner will be shot on the spot.

Everything must go off without a hitch with the least possible delay...

It shouldn't be hurried, there must be no fumbling around.

I've been put in charge and made personally responsible...

for any lack of order or for any mistakes.

But you can take it from me that I shall pass on any blame and with interest.

To any one of you who fails in his duties.

Execution will take place at 7 o'clock.

According to the verdict of the court-martial.

Detail, attention, dismissed.

This is compliments of General Mireau.

- Duck. - Well, tell him thanks.

Oh, don't blame me soldier.

Hey ugly, what we supposed to eat this with, our fingers?

The guard says you can't have any knives or forks.

This supposed to be our last meal or something?

Isn't supposed to be our last meal, it is our last meal.

Hey, this duck is terrific.

- You suppose they put anything in the food? - First they poison us, then they shoot us?

- I think they put something in it. - Like what?

Like something to make us groggy or something.

What would be wrong with that if they did?

Maybe nothing for you, but I'm going to get out of this somehow.

And I don't want to be drugged.

How you going to get out? Chew your way through that stone wall?

Arnaud, Colonel Dax, he'll, he'll, he'll see us through.

Listen, we got to get out of here. They're going to kill us in a few hours if we don't.

- Have you got an idea? - No, but there's got to be a way.

How many guards you think they got out there?

They may have a couple of squads, that's what it sounded like this morning.

- Maybe they're some of our friends. - That's the Third Battalion.

Anyway, right now, we have no friends.

Why kid yourself? We're not going to get out of this.

Maybe you're not, but I am. I'll guarantee you of that.

You see that cockroach?

Tomorrow morning, we'll be dead and it'll be alive.

It'll have more contact with my wife and child than I will.

- I'll be nothing and it'll be alive. - Now you got the edge on him.

Good evening my sons, I'm Father Dupree.

- Is there any news? - Yes, I'm afraid I bring you very bad news.

You must prepare yourselves to the worst.

- Colonel Dax asked me to tell you so. - Oh mercy, no.

He's been in telephone contact with army headquarters...

but unable to speak to General Broulard or for that matter, to anyone in authority.

Same way at Division, no one wants to be found.

- How much time do we have? - You've plenty of time yet.

Certainly more than enough to prepare yourselves.

- In nomine Patris... - In the name of the Father.

Et Fili et Spiritus Sancti, amen.

Father, will you take this letter for me please?

Of course, my son.

It's to my wife, she won't understand this and I tried to explain it to her.

I'll see that she gets it. Do you want me to hear your confession?

Well Father, to tell you the truth, I'm not very religious.

I know you're trying to help and I appreciate it.

But if I started praying now, I'd feel like a hypocrite.

Oh, that's an error my son. God is always ready to listen to your prayers.

All right Father.

- Will you please hear my confession now? - Yes.

Have faith in your creator my son, death comes to us all.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.

That's really deep, death comes to us all. That really is deep.

Say, Ferol, what's the matter? Afraid your luck isn't going to hold out?

Well look. This is, this is my religion.

O Great Bottle, forgive me my sins for now I lay me down to sleep, Bo peep.

May I drink of you first? Thank you. Amen.

I understand your anguish my son.

- You must not let it harden your heart. - May I tell you something Father?

Back in my hometown, there was a certain little cafe with amusing sign over the bar.

It read, do not be afraid to ask for credit for our way of refusing is very polite.

- Come on Arnaud, sit down, you're drunk. - Oh Paris, leave me alone.

- Come on. - Paris...

Cad you, get out of here with your sanctimonious pat answers.

What are you hanging around for, to torture us?

- No, to help you with all my power. - Your power? You have no power.

- Come on Arnaud, take it easy. - No, but God has power.

- Does he? Who want to laugh. - You can be saved.

Saved? I'll be saved.

Cut it out Arnaud.

Arnaud.

Arnaud.

Father, get a doctor quick.

That should keep him quiet long enough.

That's a nasty skull fracture though, he may not live out the night.

What are we supposed to do with him?

My advice is to tie him to a stretcher so he won't slip when you tilt it vertically.

Surely they won't execute a man in that condition.

I'm sorry Father, the sentence will be carried out.

I already checked with the general on it.

He's still alive in the morning...

pinch his cheeks a couple of times before you take him out on the field.

May make him open his eyes. The general wants him to be conscious.

Yes?

- Lieutenant Roget reporting sir. - Come in, come in.

Sergeant Boulanger said that you wanted see me sir.

Yes Lieutenant.

Looks as if we have a pretty unpleasant thing on our hands in a few hours, ain't it?

- You mean the execution sir. - Yes, I mean the execution.

Yes sir, it's very unfortunate.

Oh, very unfortunate, it's just how I feel about it.

- None of us are happy about it sir. - How you happen to pick Corporal Paris?

- Well I, I had to pick somebody sir. - That's right, you did.

Of course, you had no personal motive in picking Paris, did you?

Oh no sir.

You picked him because he was a coward, didn't he?

Well, did you or didn't you?

- Oh yes sir, I did. - Well...

Like you say, somebody had to be picked.

- Oh, it was quite a problem sir. - Yes, I have the same kind of problem.

I have to pick someone to be in charge of the firing squad tomorrow.

You have any objections taking the job?

- Me sir? - Yes you.

What's the matter? Don't you feel well?

Well, no. Yeah, I, I feel all right sir, just that I...

Is it too hot in here? Would you like me to open a window?

No sir, no sir.

Well it's, it's just that I've never been in charge of a firing squad before sir.

Oh, it's nothing to it.

First, you help the sergeant tie the men to the posts.

Of course, you offer the men blindfolds and...

well, if they want them, you tie them on see?

Now you, you take your position with the firing squad...

you raise your sword, ready, aim, fire.

Then you draw your revolver out, walk forward and put a bullet through each man's head.

Sir, I request that I'd be excused from this duty.

Request denied.

- Colonel I... - You've got the job, it's all yours.

- That's all Lieutenant. - Colonel, if you could just.

- That's all, Lieutenant, yes?

- Excuse me sir Colonel Dax? - Yes.

My name is Rousseau sir Captain of Artillery.

What is it Captain?

I have something to tell you sir, that may have a great bearing on the court-martial.

Come in Captain.

- Well Colonel, good evening. - Good evening sir.

- Good evening, come and sit down. - Thank you sir, I...

I'm really sorry to intrude on you in this way.

Not at all, always delighted to see you Colonel Dax.

- Will you have a cigar? - No, thank you sir.

- Well I... - Think you find it delicious.

Must apologize for not inviting you to join the party downstairs tonight but...

but I'm afraid that it's, a dress affair.

Thank you sir, but I must confess that this is not entirely a social visit.

Oh come Dax, let's not go over all that ground again.

Though, I must admit that, judging from the casualties...

the efforts of your regiment must've been considerable.

Now, how can you understand that and allow these men to be shot tomorrow?

Oh come Colonel, you're choosing to take a rather simple view of this thing.

Attack was impossible from the start, the General Staff must've known that.

Colonel Dax, we think we're doing a good job running the war.

You must be aware of the fact that the General Staff...

is subject to all kinds of unfair pressures from newspapers and politicians.

Maybe the attack against the Anthill was impossible.

Perhaps it was an error of judgment on our part, on the other hand...

if your men had been a little more daring, might've taken it.

Who knows? In any case...

why should we have to bear any more criticism for failure than we have to.

Aside from the inescapable fact that a good many of your men never left the trenches...

there's the question of the troops morale, don't forget that.

- The troops morale? - Certainly.

These executions will be a perfect tonic for the entire division.

There are few things more fundamentally encouraging and stimulating...

than seeing someone else die.

- I never thought of that sir. - You see Colonel, troops are like children.

Just as a child wants his father to be firm, troops crave discipline.

I see.

And one way to maintain discipline is to shoot a man now and then.

May I ask...

do you sincerely believe all the things you just said?

It's been a pleasure discussing this with you Colonel...

but I'm afraid that I'd better be getting back to my guests.

Forgive me for having kept you from your party.

Oh, by the way sir...

have you heard that General Mireau ordered his own battery commander Captain Rousseau...

to open fire on his own positions during the attack?

Of course the captain refused without a written order...

but General Mireau demanded that he commence firing on our own trenches.

Again Rousseau refused without an order in writing...

but again he was ordered and again he refused.

All in front of witnesses.

Do you actually believe this fantastic story?

Here are copies of the sworn statements from all the principals involved.

Battery Commander Rousseau, Captain Nichols, the artillery spotter...

the telephone clerk and my own deposition.

What has all this got to do with the charge against the condemned prisoners?

A general in a tantrum over the failure of an impossible attack...

orders his artillery to fire on his own men.

Now, this same officer on the same day...

orders a court-martial in which three of his men are sentenced to be shot.

General, what would your newspapers and your politicians do with that?

Colonel Dax, are you trying to blackmail me?

Sir, that's an ugly word, but you are in a difficult position.

Too much has happened, Someone got to be hurt, the only question is who.

General Mireau's assault on the Anthill failed...

his order to fire on his own troops was refused.

But his attempt to murder three innocent men to protect...

his own reputation will be prevented by the General Staff.

Will you pardon me Colonel Dax? I've been rude to my guests too long.

Detail, halt.

Order arms.

Fall out.

Courage my son, the worst is over.

Good morning Paris.

Good morning Sergeant.

- How are you today? - Not too bad.

How are you?

You missed some good chow in here last night.

What you have?

Have you got a drink for us?

Take a swig of this.

It just occurred to me, funny thing.

I haven't had one sexual thought since the court-martial.

- Pretty extraordinary thing. - Pull yourself together, act like a man.

- Listen Paris, are you listening to me? - Yes.

There'll be a lot of dignitaries, newspapermen out there.

You got a wife and family, how do you want to be remembered?

I don't want to die.

Many of us will be joining you before this war is over.

I don't care, I don't want to die.

- Please save me Sergeant. - I can't save you, no one can now.

This is the last decision you have a chance to make on earth.

You can pull yourself together, act like a man or we'll have to drag you out of here.

In the end, it'll all be the same, it's up to you.

Well, let's get busy. You and Ferol take your coats off.

It's no use hanging around here.

With the help of thy grace do penance and to amend my life.

Why do I have to die? For what?

Why do I have to die? Why? I didn't do anything.

We do not question the will of God my son.

But I fought, I fought, I fought on the battlefield.

Why don't they die? Why not put them to death?

Showed courage in the face of the enemy my son, show it now before your own troops.

But I'm scared, I'm scared.

Oh Father...

Courage, brace yourself man, brace yourself.

He said, this day, thou shalt be with me in paradise.

- Really Father? - Yes.

Really Father?

I don't understand why?

I'll never see nobody again Father.

Courage man, brace yourself.

- I can't help it. - Brace yourself.

- I can't help it Father. - O God, O Almighty God.

- Oh Christ, Christ. - Grant courage...

- to this man who is about to die. - Strengthen me God please strengthen me.

Why do I have to die Father?

Why do I have to die Father?

Half face.

Secure prisoners.

Detail, attention. Forward, march.

Detail, halt.

Left, face.

Please don't shoot me.

In the name of the French People...

Corporal Philippe Paris...

Private Maurice Ferol...

and Private Pierre Arnaud of the 701st Regiment...

having been found guilty of cowardice in the face of the enemy...

are to be executed by rifle fire immediately...

in accordance with the judgment of the military court-martial.

Right, face.

Forward march.

And blessed are thou amongst thy.

Do you want a blindfold?

Yes Lieutenant please.

I don't want to die, I don't want to die.

- Do, do you want a blindfold? - No.

I'm sorry.

Ready.

Aim.

Fire.

I'm awfully glad you could be there George.

This sort of thing is always rather grim.

But this one had a kind of splendor to it, don't you think?

I have never seen an affair of this sort handled any better.

The men died wonderfully.

There's always that chance that one of them will do something that...

leave everyone with a bad taste. This time, you couldn't ask for better.

Yes?

- Yes Colonel? - You wanted to see me sir.

Oh, yes, yes. Come in Colonel, come in and sit down.

Oh Colonel Dax, your men died very well.

- Would you like some coffee Colonel? - No, thank you sir.

Oh, by the way Paul...

It's been brought to my attention that you ordered your artillery to...

fire on your own men during the attack on the Anthill.

I did what?

Who told you that?

Colonel Dax came to me last night with the story.

Colonel Dax, I've always known that you were a disloyal officer...

but I never dreamed that you would stoop to anything so low as this.

General, I have sworn statements from Captain Nichols, your artillery spotter...

Captain Rousseau, the battery commander who refused your order.

I think it's infamous, absolutely infamous.

Then there's no truth at all to the charge made by Colonel Dax?

I don't see how you could even ask me that.

You cannot imagine how glad I am to hear that Paul.

I'm certain that you'll come through it all right.

- I'll come through what? - There'll have to be an inquiry.

An inquiry?

But it won't amount to much, those things never do, the public forgets.

Public?

You got to have the right to clear your name.

You cannot allow such vile insinuations against your character to go undenied.

So that's it.

You're making me the goat.

The only completely innocent man in this whole affair.

I have only one last thing to say to you George...

The man you stabbed in the back is a soldier.

Well...

had to be done.

France cannot afford to have fools guiding her military destiny.

I'm grateful to you Dax for having brought this matter to my attention.

Colonel Dax, how would you like General Mireau's job?

- His what sir? - His job.

Let me get this straight sir.

You're offering me General Mireau's command?

Come, come Colonel Dax, don't overdo the surprise.

You've been after the job from the start, we all know that my boy.

I may be many things sir, but I'm not your boy.

Well, I certainly didn't mean to imply any biological relationship.

- I'm not your boy in any sense. - You trying to provoke me Colonel?

- Why should I want to do that sir? - Exactly.

Would be a pity to lose your promotion before you get it.

A promotion you have so very carefully planned for.

Sir, would you like me to suggest what you can do with that promotion?

Colonel Dax, you will apologize at once, or I shall have you placed under arrest.

I apologize for not being entirely honest with you.

I apologize for not revealing my true feelings.

I apologize sir, for not telling you sooner that you're a degenerate, sadistic old man.

And you can go to hell before I apologize to you now or ever again.

Colonel Dax, you're a disappointment to me.

You've spoiled the keenness of your mind by wallowing in sentimentality.

You really did want to save those men.

And you were not angling for Mireau's command.

You're an idealist and I pity you as I would the village idiot.

We're fighting a war Dax, a war that we got to win.

Those men didn't fight so they were shot.

You bring charges against General Mireau, so I insist that he answer them.

Wherein have I done wrong?

Because you don't know the answer to that question...

I pity you.

Thank you, thank you. Now gentlemen, we have a little special entertainment for you.

Sort of a, sort of a little diversion as it were.

And as my wife always says, what is life without a little diversion?

Now gentlemen, I give you our latest acquisition from the enemy.

From Germany, the land of the Hun.

Gentlemen, a little pearl washed ashore by the tide of war.

Hey. Talk in a civilized language.

It's true the little lady has her limitations.

As a matter of fact, she has absolutely no talent at all.

Except that is, well, maybe a little natural talent?

Little lady can't dance, she can't tell any jokes...

and she can't balance rubber balls on her little nose.

Ah, but she can sing like a bird.

She has a throat of gold.

- Come on baby. - Come on honey, sing us a song.

Come on honey, how about a song?

Louder. Louder.

- Sir. - Yes Sergeant?

We have orders to move back to the front immediately.

- Give the men a few minutes more Sergeant. - Yes sir.