A flawed film

Rating: 8/10 (13 February 2002)

The pros: George C. Scott's performance of Patton is second only to his job in "Dr. Strangelove," the first scene is a classic, Rommel is very good, the ending is very poignant, the music is perfect, and the cinematography is beautiful. (This is a film that must be viewed in the letterbox version!) The cons: it is one hour too long, the friendship between Patton and Bradley seems forced and artificial, and the battle scenes are often confused and uncoordinated. Karl Malden is not right for the part. The middle act goes in too many directions at the same time. It is worth seeing mainly for George C. Scott and the photography. 7 out of 10.