Exciting war biography

Rating: 10/10 (4 February 2005)

Patton is one of the few movie biographies that hits the nail on the head. Although it deals with only a few years of Patton's life--all during WW2--it paints a compelling picture of the famous general. To say that Patton was controversial would be an understatement. Patton's nickname before the war was The Green Hornet:given because he had a reputation for sudden harshness. In fact, during the 30's uprising in Washington DC by WW1 veterans, he beat the veterans with the broadside of his sword. The movie captures Patton's intensity and mood changes. In the famous scene where he strikes a soldier (historically, he struck 2 in different places and both were suffering horribly from malaria) he had just shared some kind words and gestures with some others. It also captures his real thoughts of his superiors. In one particular scene, he is badmouthing a general who then walks into his room. He instantly changes his mood. Besides that, the movie captures Patton's genius in conducting war as well as the respect he had amongst the Germans. It also shows Patton's keen knowledge of history and how it translated to victory in his battles. The battle scenes can be a touch graphic for its time but can be considered mild today. Karl Malden plays an excellent role as General Bradley and complements the brashness of Patton. Patton the man had his faults, but the movie does not.