Patton s dislike for the Russians was understood by the viewing American public at the time the film was released. Hyams remark that films make more sense of the battle to the viewers than the combatants can be validated when one considers the release date of this film. World War II was fought with great support from the American public. This same public sought for factors which would unify a nation sorely troubled by Viet Nam. The film Patton showed the support that the eccentric general gained from his own troops and their families.
Any film is likely to purport some amount of propaganda.
Patton engages the viewer s nationalistic pride when the dirty Germans fear the general and the Americans march undauntedly through the elements to win the war almost single-handedly. Films against war are just as likely to incorporate pride in the progress of civilized thinking. The armed services are seen in this film as positive forces protecting freedom and all human rights. Military leadership was a very important part of this film. Despite the quip Old Blood and Guts.