Patton (1970)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  172 Minutes

Rated: GP (PG)

Genre: Biography, Drama, War

Director: Franklin J. Schaffner

Starring: George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Stephen Young, Michael Strong, Carey Loftin, Albert Dumortier,

IMDB Rank: 7.9/10

Part 1 Time: 100 Minutes

Part 2 Time: 72 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Patton (George C. Scott) retires to his quarters, following him being relieved of his command due to the slapping incident.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “Ah George, wish I kissed the son of a bitch.” Patton speaking to Sgt. William Meeks (James Edwards).

First line of dialogue on the second part: “He is paying tribute to the three French forces under DeGulle.” A solider translates Patton’s statements to soldiers in the crowd.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, the allies are beginning to close in on axis control. By mid 1943 the Untied States and Britain have won the North African campaign and are now infiltrating Italy. The success of this campaign is due to the leadership of Patton, thus his suspension will be short, the allies need him.

Which part is better? Part one focuses on the North African campaign where Patton tracks Rommel (General of Germany). Part two shows Patton’s limited contributions to the final years of the Eastern Front Campaign, where he is somewhat overshadowed by other Generals such as Montgomery (Britain), Bradley and Eisenhower (United States). Part one shows Patton’s strong leadership and strategic ability giving the audience an understanding of Patton’s disposition, edge is given to part one.

Academy Awards: 1971; Best Picture, Best Leading Actor (George C. Scott), Best Director (Franklin J. Schaffner), Best Writing- Story and Screenplay Based on Factual Material or Material Not Previously Published or Produced, Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Sound, Best Film Editing, Best Cinematography (Nominated), Best Effects- Special Visual Effects (Nominated), Best Music-Original Score (Nominated).

National Film Registry: 2003