Patton Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A glory-obsessed general yells a lot, slaps a soldier, and then wonders why everyone’s mad at him for things he keeps doing.

🍿 Patton: Detailed Plot Synopsis

North Africa and Initial Success

The film opens with General George S. Patton’s famous speech to his troops, setting the tone for his aggressive and unconventional leadership style. He takes command of the demoralized II Corps in North Africa after their defeat at Kasserine Pass. Patton quickly instills discipline and implements strict training regimens to transform the unit.

The Sicily Campaign and Controversy

During the invasion of Sicily, Patton competes fiercely with British General Montgomery for strategic victories. His ambition leads him to capture Palermo and Messina, but his methods are often questioned by his superiors. A controversial incident occurs when Patton slaps a soldier suffering from shell shock in a field hospital, leading to public backlash and a reprimand.

D-Day and the Third Army

Patton is sidelined for a time but is later given command of the Third Army after D-Day. He leads a rapid and successful advance across France, showcasing his tactical brilliance and aggressive strategy. Despite his victories, his outspoken nature continues to create friction with his superiors and allies.

Battle of the Bulge and the End of the War

During the Battle of the Bulge, Patton’s Third Army plays a crucial role in relieving the besieged 101st Airborne Division at Bastogne. As the war nears its end, Patton becomes increasingly disillusioned with the prospect of peace and expresses controversial views on the Soviet Union and the denazification of Germany.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• General George S. Patton Jr. (George C. Scott): A brilliant but controversial American general in World War II, known for his tactical genius, ego, and unconventional methods.
• General Omar N. Bradley (Karl Malden): A level-headed and competent general who serves as a foil and at times, a superior to Patton, balancing Patton’s impulsiveness with careful planning.
• Field Marshal Erwin Rommel (Karl Michael Vogler): A respected German military leader whose tactical prowess is admired and studied by Patton.
• Field Marshal Sir Bernard Law Montgomery (Michael Bates): The egotistical British commander and Patton’s rival throughout the war, driven by both pride and goals for the Allies.
• Captain Chester B. Hansen (Stephen Young): A loyal officer who assists General Patton.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Patton: “Now I want you to remember that no bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. He won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country.” – Patton delivers this opening line in front of a giant American flag, setting the tone for his aggressive and pragmatic approach to war.
• Patton: “Rommel, you magnificent bastard, I read your book!” – Patton exclaims this after outmaneuvering Rommel’s forces, showing his respect for his adversary’s strategic mind.
• Patton: “All glory is fleeting.” – Patton reflects on the transient nature of fame and achievement near the end of the film, adding a touch of melancholy to his character.
• Patton: “God help me, I do love it so.” – Patton says this line under his breath when looking at a battlefield, revealing his inner conflict with his love of warfare.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $12,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $61,749,765
• Worldwide Gross: $61,749,765

💥 Patton Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, what a movie! I was completely blown away by George C. Scott’s performance. He WAS Patton. The opening speech gave me chills, and I found myself both admiring and being repulsed by his character at different points, and I think it perfectly captured this complex individual. The film is long, but I was hooked from beginning to end. I especially remember the scene where Patton slaps the soldier. It really showed his inability to understand the emotional toll war takes. Even though I disagreed with his actions, the film still made me feel for him in some strange way. It’s a must-see!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical war films”
  • “Those interested in military biographies”
  • “Viewers who appreciate complex character studies”
  • “People interested in World War II history”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “War violence”
  • “Profanity”
  • “Brief depiction of a soldier suffering from shell shock”
  • “Mature themes”

Professional Reviews

• Roger Ebert: “A magnificent, flawed, and ultimately human portrait of a military genius. Scott’s performance is iconic, capturing Patton’s charisma and ruthlessness. The film avoids easy judgments, presenting a complex figure in all his glory and contradictions.
• Variety: “A sweeping and visually stunning epic. It’s a powerful study of leadership and the cost of war, anchored by George C. Scott’s unforgettable performance. The battle sequences are realistically staged, enhancing the film’s visceral impact.
• The New York Times: “A compelling and thought-provoking film. Patton offers no easy answers, presenting a man driven by ambition and a love of war. The supporting cast is strong, but Scott dominates the screen, delivering a performance that is both captivating and unsettling.

Audience Reactions

George C. Scott’s performance is one of the greatest in cinema history.: Viewers consistently praise the powerful and nuanced portrayal of General Patton by George C. Scott.

The film offers a complex and thought-provoking look at a controversial figure.: Many appreciate the film’s refusal to present a simple hero, instead exploring the complexities and contradictions of Patton’s character.

Overall Consensus: Patton is widely considered a classic war epic, notable for its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and complex exploration of leadership and war.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Picture)- 1971
2. Academy Award (Best Director)- 1971
3. Academy Award (Best Actor)- 1971
4. Academy Award (Best Original Screenplay)- 1971

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “George C. Scott famously refused the Best Actor Oscar for his performance, calling the awards ceremony a ‘meat parade’.”
• “The film opens with a six-minute speech by Patton, which was filmed in one take.”
• “Francis Ford Coppola co-wrote the screenplay but was initially fired from the project before being rehired.”
• “Many of the battle scenes were filmed in Spain to resemble North Africa and Sicily.”
• “The film avoids showing the 20th Century Fox logo at the beginning, a rare occurrence.”

🖥️ How to Watch Patton?

Patton is available for streaming purchase or rental on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable on-demand options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Patton, you might like these similar films:

• Lawrence of Arabia (1962): Both films are epic biographies focusing on complex, controversial military figures in a World War setting.
• Apocalypse Now (1979): Explores the psychological effects of war and the complexities of command, although in a very different setting (Vietnam).
• A Bridge Too Far (1977): Offers a broad view of a major World War II operation with a large ensemble cast, showcasing the strategies and consequences of war.
• Zero Dark Thirty (2012): Focuses on the relentless pursuit of a single objective and the complex moral questions that arise in wartime.
• Das Boot (1981): Presents a claustrophobic and intense depiction of war, focusing on the psychological toll it takes on soldiers.

🛒 Patton Related Products

• Patton (Two-Disc Special Edition) [Blu-ray]: High-definition Blu-ray version includes behind-the-scenes features, commentary, and extended scenes.
• Patton: A Genius for War: A detailed biography delves into the life, strategies, and controversies surrounding General Patton.
• Patton Movie Poster: Iconic film poster suitable for framing, capturing the essence of the movie’s epic scale.
• General Patton Action Figure: Highly detailed action figure of General George S. Patton, featuring authentic uniform and accessories.

🎧 Soundtrack

Patton features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Title” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “Anzio” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “The Battle” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “To the Colors” – performed by Traditional

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

General Patton’s Personal Jeep Driver Remembers the Legendary Man

Ever wondered what it was like to work closely with one of history’s most revered generals? This interview with Patton’s personal driver gives us a fascinating glimpse into the man behind the legend.

How the Movie Patton Accurately Depicts the Medals and Rank of the Iconic General

Attention to detail can make all the difference in a historical film. This video breaks down the accuracy of General Patton’s attire in the movie, showcasing the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity.

Patton’s Third Army Is Prepared

Prepare to be amazed by Patton’s strategic genius in this scene from the movie. It’s a testament to his leadership and the challenges faced by the Third Army.

✨ Rate