rimhotep

I was surprised at this depiction of the battle itself. This is probably the only battle in history where the defenders (in prepared positions & with the element of surprise) suffered more casualties than the attackers. As mentioned in the movie, Filipino generals during the war lacked military science knowledge - and it shows. They also lacked knowledge of basic tactics and common sense. Goyo, the movie would have us believe, was prone to self-reflection on a mountain top like a yoga aficionado than ducking enemy fire. Utter BS. The Pinoy troops had the advantage of terrain but squandered it. The American troops, though they were fighting an uphill battle, managed to shoot consistently better. What happened? No shooting ranges for Pinoy troops to hone their skills? Seemed the only thing they were good at was DYING.

I remember watching this as a kid when it first came out. And it stuck in my mind. More than 40 years later, I still remember the intricacy of the assassination plot against Patton. "Just make it look like an accident, 007" - well, this scenario does just that. Max von Sydow was in his prime as an unassuming hit man, who could wear any disguise and pull it off spectacularly. That it still sticks to my mind 40 years later is a testament to how impressed I was with the movie.