Released on Blu-ray is the History Channel series, Patton 360. Originally airing on the network, the Blu-ray is a compilation of episodes chronicling the strategic background of World War II's General George S. Patton.
Patton, memorably known as 'Old Blood and Guts' from his soldiers and comrades, was a formidable man. An aristocrat with a penchant for adventure and battle, he prepared his entire life to strive for the glory that would solidify his name with WWII Allied victory. A man whose lineage traces back to warriors and heroes, he used that pride and shrewd cunning to pressure his enemies and ultimately bring victory on the battlefront.
While the series is mostly devoted to Patton's role in WWII, it also devotes a lot time to other key players, their contributions to the war effort, and ultimately Patton's success. Naturally most of the key players are the thousands of soldiers, most of whom were barely in their twenties, struggling through insurmountable odds and dangerously experienced Nazi allies. Patton 360 constructs their commentary, along with various other sources, to provide a narrative around the hard facts of WWII.
The series starts out with the introduction of America to the war. General Patton is enlisted to lead 34,000 troops through French North Africa to capture Casablanca, and gain an important advantage in their introduction to the war. Today's technology gives troops an edge for safer invasion landings, but back in 1942, they were fully exposed to the elements and enemy fire. Episode 1: Battle of the Bulge dives into this dangerous November mission, illustrating the experience with commentary, CGI, and historical footage. Further episodes gradually bring the viewer deeper into the war. Going from Rommel's Last Stand, which recounts America's introduction to the Germans and Patton's ability to whip discipline and vigor into an army that temporarily lost direction, to Crushing the Third Reich which signals the Allied victory and the death of the legendary general; viewers get a sense of the struggles and loss of the war, along with the genuinely natural leadership abilities demonstrated by Patton. The first-hand accounts are colorfully provided in each episode, with commentators providing frank descriptions behind historical moments. The military photos of each veteran as they were back in WWII, is featured along with their commentary. It's a beautiful touch that helps to put into perspective the identities of those who were on the frontlines.
One thing about History that never seems to be a disappointment is the quality of their CGI and visuals. From the previously mentioned pictures to a military grid overlay on stock footage, the graphics are attention-getting. There's even digital reenactments of battles and equipment operation. This content sets it apart from other war documentary series because it allows for an extra depth of exploration, breaking down the content in an easy to understand format. With the exception of the references to the (inevitably) harrowing descriptions of war, it makes the show a great way to introduce WWII history to a younger audience while making it interesting enough that it appeals across demographic categories. The only major complaint with the imagery is that most of it is repetitious, and after awhile it loses its initial appeal. It would not have been such a bad thing to keep the cameras on the veterans for more than a few seconds. It wouldn't have made the series any less interesting.
With all that being said, Patton 360 is a very enjoyable experience. While the series isn't focused solely on Patton, it does a great job of handling the legacy of the famous general. It portrayed a man devoted to discipline, leadership and heroism. It also portrayed a man who lived just long enough to achieve the destiny he fiercely believed in. This attention to the human element is what makes the series interesting, and is also a reminder of what fuels and conquers war.
Blu-ray Bonus Features
There are no bonus features.
"Patton 360" is on sale September 28, 2010 and is not rated. Documentary. Directed by Tony Long. Starring Errol James Snyder.
