Starring George C. Scott in a career-defining performance as the title role, PATTON (1970) first appeared on the American Film Institute’s list of the greatest American films in 1998 – with Scott’s portrayal of General George Patton earning a place on AFI’s list of cinema’s great screen heroes. The film was directed by the great Franklin Schaffner, who served on the AFI Board of Trustees from 1975 until his passing in 1989 – and for whom the AFI Conservatory has named its Franklin J. Schaffner Alumni Medal, presented to graduates who embody the qualities of the late filmmaker: talent, taste, dedication and commitment to quality storytelling. PATTON was co-written by Francis Ford Coppola, who served among the founding Trustees of AFI in 1967 – and who will soon be honored as the 50th recipient of the AFI Life Achievement Award.
Visit the AFI Catalog to learn more about PATTON.
