Rating of
3/4
"Patton" by Yojimbo
Yojimbo - wrote on 05/17/16
This biopic of lauded American general George S. Patton is an admirably warts and all depiction of one of the leading figures of the Second World War. Through a commanding performance by George C. Scott, Patton is not only shown as a charismatic, supremely self-confident and wily military tactician, but also a judgemental, self-aggrandising, tactless and undiplomatic glory hound who was often more interested in a game of oneupmanship with his fellow allied commanders than beating the enemy or the welfare of his soldiers. It's interesting how a lesson in humility brought out the best in the man and the way the conflict is shown from a tactical point of view rather than in the thick of the battle, which gives the story an almost "historical" feel. The battle sequences are brilliantly staged and it is perfectly paced for its not inconsiderable length making for a classic biopic-cum-war film that foregoes the usual Gung Ho heroics of the average war film for a more personal approach.
