Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Patton is an epic war movie, and a biopic about General George S. Patton Jr. It was a big hit in its day and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It includes widescreen battlefield violence, with shooting and explosions; dead bodies and blood are shown in the aftermath. Patton has a potty mouth, though he tends to stay away from very strong language: "s--t" is heard only once. Far more common is "bastard," "goddamn," and "son of a bitch." There's also some brief innuendo, though no sexual situations. Patton smokes a cigar and occasionally drinks at military functions. The movie is a very complex mix of celebrating military strategy and excellence, but also commenting upon the evils of war, though it's apparent that Patton himself comes out looking like a hero either way. It will be a good discussion starter for mature teens.
Sexual
Content
Some minor, infrequent sexual banter, such as references to "fornication," "whorehouses" and "pimps."
Violence
There are several battles, marked with dropping bombs and explosions, and shooting of guns (mostly shown from a distance). In the aftermath, there are many dead bodies, some covered in blood. In one disturbing sequence, Patton shoots and kills a couple of donkeys that are blocking a road. (Their deaths are off-screen.) In a famous sequence, he slaps a soldier for being a "coward."
Language
Patton has a potty mouth, and swears in just about every scene, though he tends to stay away from the strongest language. "S--t" is heard perhaps once. More common is "bastard," "son of a bitch," "goddamn," "crap," "ass," "butt," "damn," and "hell."
Social
Behavior
This movie has a very complex nature. It celebrates military strategy, but at the same time questions warmongering and military thought. It could be argued that the former comes out more strongly than the latter, and that violence itself is celebrated.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Patton smokes cigars, and can be seen sipping wine and drinking vodka at occasional fancy dinners.
