Fear and Desire (1953)

Four soldiers trapped behind enemy lines must confront their fears and desires.

Although Stanley Kubrick's talents are clearly present in his first feature-length film (superb photography and editing, unusual storyline), the result has a volitional feel to it as if this were an etude for an overzealous pupil - no wonder Kubrick had it banned from public viewing.

Maltin**: "...the movie contains some striking imagery and shows the germs of budding talent, but generally comes off as an arty and pretentious student film."