The film was shot near Munich, Germany, and most of the men playing French soldiers were actually off-duty officers from the Munich Police Department.
The French authorities considered the film an offense to the honor of their army and prohibited its exhibition in France until 1975. In Germany the film wasn't allowed to be shown for a couple of years after its release to avoid any strain in relations with France.
The prison scene where the men discuss their fates ran overtime on a Saturday. Stanley Kubrick could not get what he wanted, and producer James B. Harris came to the set to tell the director after take 63 that overtime was not allowed in Germany. Kubrick resisted stopping in a rare show of temper. He finally got what he wanted by take 74.
The title is a quotation from Thomas Gray's 'Elegy written in a country churchyard': "The paths of glory lead but to the grave".
Was banned in France for its negative portrayal of the French army. Switzerland also banned the film (until 1978), accusing it of being "subversive propaganda directed at France." Belgium required that a foreword be added stating that the story represented an isolated case that did not reflect upon the "gallantry of the French soldiers."
When Kirk Douglas was first approached for the role, he was committed to a Broadway play. Stanley Kubrick then met Gregory Peck in connection with How to Steal a Million; Peck was interested but was also unavailable. Douglas' play was postponed and then Peck also became available; Douglas got in first and got the part.
Stanley Kubrick:
[Bathroom]
We are introduced to Col. Dax as he washes up.
Stanley Kubrick:
[faces]
Paris, when he's about to strike Private Arnaud.
Stanley Kubrick:
[faces]
The soldiers, while the German girl is singing.
Stanley Kubrick:
[Three-Way]
Col. Dax vs. Gen. Mireau vs. Gen. Broulard
Stanley Kubrick:
[Three-Way]
Court-martialed soldiers vs. French generals vs. Germans
Stanley Kubrick:
[Three-Way]
Lt. Roget vs. Cpl. Paris vs. Gen. Mireau