All Quiet on the Western Front movie and book All Quiet on the Western Front was a story told by Paul Baumer, a 19 year-old student. He was convinced to join the German army by a schoolmaster , Kantorek, a along with many of his friends from school. He was trained by Corporal Himmelstoss, a strictly disciplined commander who dislikes Paul because of his defiance. While at the front, Paul along with his other friends made a new friend. His name was Stanislaus Katczinsky who was the commander of the 18 and 19 year-old recruits. After visiting the front for a while, Paul is given 14 days of leave w