Four-Star Films : ‘Patton’

This 1970 blockbuster brought George C. Scott an Oscar he refused to accept for his superb portrayal of Gen. George S. Patton Jr. A most unconventional war movie--yet full of the noise and action of battle--the film does not give comfort to hawks or doves. It is a portrait, not an argument, and that is its strength and salvation. Written by Francis Ford Coppola and Edmund North, the film follows Patton from the desert war of North America through Sicily and Europe to the moment he is relieved of command of the Third Army. Impeccably directed by Franklin Schaffner, “Patton” preserves a strong momentum, and we could hardly ask for a rounder or deeper understanding of an extraordinarily complicated and contradictory human being (USA Friday at 10:30 a.m.).

Other Four-Star Films

Wuthering Heights AMC Sunday, noon, 8 p.m.; Monday at 8 a.m.

The Adventures of Robin Hood Showtime Monday, 8:30 a.m.

The Band Wagon TMC Tuesday, 7 a.m., 6:05 p.m.

Dead of Night Showtime Wednesday, 1:30 p.m.

Captain Blood TMC Friday, 12:10 p.m.

Top Hat AMC Saturday, 9:30 a.m.