Review of Patton (1970) by Dustin J — 02 Oct 2010

The war film Patton is directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and stars George C. Scott and Karl Malden. The film takes place during WWII in Europe and Northern Africa.

The film starts off with General Patton (Scott) giving a monologue to his troops in front of a giant American flag about war. It is hard to give a summary of this film because it is about General Patton so instead I will give you a summary of the character. Patton is a legendary man who will be remembered for as long as WWII will be remembered. He is one of the greatest American generals. The film focuses on every aspect of his character. He is a hot headed, stubborn man who will do things his way. He wants all the glory. The most important thing about him though is his love of war. For him war equals happiness. This film is one of the best character studies ever made and it is hard to really call it a war film since there is so little war sequences.

The screenplay for this film is absolutely brilliant. It was written by Francis Ford Coppola and Edmund H. North who both deservingly won Oscars. Patton was constantly on the screen for about 90% of the film and for me to keep interested by him the whole time is enough to say that this is an incredibly written film. I also really liked how the Nazis were shown studying Patton so I was also able to know him better. Another great thing was that I grew to really like Patton and yet still dislike his beliefs. That is great writing. Bravo.

Schaffner has succeeded in direction one of not only the greatest war films ever, but one of the greatest films. There were so many beautiful complex shots in this film I was in awe constantly. Not only did he direct this film brilliantly but he knew how to get an outstanding performance from his lead actor. I believe that if almost anyone besides Schaffner directed this film it would have been a terrible, boring film that would have been tossed aside during the Oscars even though it had a brilliant screenplay.

George C. Scott delivered one of the greatest performances of all time in this film. He was a hated man yet made me grow to love him. Scott made me understand Patton in a way the direction in the writing could not do. It is rarely I leave a film and say to myself I wish I knew this man just to be in the presence of such a complex mind that is truly simple in a way. Karl Malden did a fine job as General Bradley, he was very likable and was perfect for the part. The rest of the supporting cast did a fine job as well.

Overall I give this film a 10/10. It is a must see film for anyone who likes character studies, war films, or just an excellently crafted film.