Patton (1970) / War-Drama

MPAA Rated: PG for violence and language (definitely at least PG-13 today)
Running Time: 172 min.

Cast: George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Michael Bates, Stephen Young, Ed Binns
Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
Screenplay: Francis Ford Coppola, Edmund H. North
Review published January 25, 1997

This is the much acclaimed biopic about WWII American General George S. Patton (Scott, The Hustler), who swept through Europe, inspiring fear by the Germans as well as his own men through his unflinching tactical command.

Garnering eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, this is an one-man tour-de-force with George C. Scott delivering the role of his career. With a sweeping scope and impressively mounted combat scenes, Patton is one of the most successfully developed war films of all time. Only too many contrived moments regarding past lives and scenes displaying Rommel and the Germans discussing the fears they have about Patton mar the production. Obviously, required viewing for war film and WW2 buffs, but terrific entertainment for everyone else.

Qwipster's rating:

©1997 Vince Leo