MovieChat Forums > The Last Days of Patton (1986) Discussion > A decent, ultimately moving film

A decent, ultimately moving film

posted 18 years ago by twm-2
7 replies | jump to latest

I'm curious about the assertion that some have made that the film was a "character assassination." I myself saw nothing that would lead one to come to such a conclusion. Certainly, the film indicated he was not without faults, but I believe this only served to make this formidable militarist icon more approachable, actually breathing life into a dusty history lesson.

I enjoyed the film a great deal, even though I think it could have benefitted by some reduction in the length. The ending was, for me, quite moving as we were given a personal glimpse into the last moments of a living, breathing human being--instead of just a decorated martinet. It forced me to turn my thoughts to my own mortality and those events that have shaped my own life. As a result, I had a long and fruitful discussion with my parents which had been long over due.

I'd reccomend the film highly, giving it an "8" out of 10.

Fighting for Truth, Justice, and making it the American way.

[–] 18 years ago

[deleted]

[–] mandrake62 12 years ago

I watched this with a member of Patton's staff. He was very moved and said it was quite accurate.

[–] twm-2 12 years ago

Really? That's interesting. I take it you must have seen when it first was broadcast, or not long thereafter?

Fighting for Truth, Justice, and making it the American way.

[–] mandrake62 12 years ago

Actually, it was about 4 to 5 years ago. We watched it on a DVD I brought over to his house. He was a junior officer on Patton's staff. He and other members used to have a reunion. In New Orleans up till about 10 years ago. They were very proud of their service to him and the 3rd Army.
I was proud to have him as a friend and very hone red to be able to watch that DVD with him. He was a great representative of the greatest generation.
He passed away in 2010 at the age of 90 and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full honors..

[–] lrcdmnhd72 11 years ago

Hi mandrake62,

One of my old college professors mentioned he felt that Patton may have been set up. He didn't elaborate too much on the details, but I got the feeling that he personally may have been somewhat close to this situation.

[–] twm-2 10 years ago

A much belated thanks for the information.

Fighting for Truth, Justice, and making it the American way. 

[–] chrissso 8 years ago

Twm-2 ... I could not agree more! There is no character Assassination here. Just a very human story about the downfall of a great and lively human being. More so ... as you mention ... a film that makes you consider your own mortality.

Excellent OP ... excellent thread ... great use of the message board feature!!!