Review of American Sniper (2014) by Justin M — 05 Jul 2015

Whether you agree or disagree with the actions taken regarding the war in Iraq and contrary to numerous critics' opinion of this films overarching nefarious agenda of flag-waving propaganda, American Sniper is an interesting and emotive single-person retrospective about the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history.

Initially lacking career direction, Texas native Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) becomes inspired into military action at the ripe age of 31 after witnessing televised events of 9/11.

In service as a Navy Seal, Chris is posted to the war in Iraq where the deadly accurate marksman quickly earns the title 'The legend' and to this day holds the record for highest number of confirmed kills.

To his wife Taya's (Sienna Miller) dismay, this reputation also earns him the highest bounty and with each rotation home, Chris detaches further from their normal life, unable to leave the war and his brothers-in-arms behind.

Proving true talent never gets old, 84 years young director Clint Eastwood cleverly showcases the intensity and raw patriotism often felt by individuals in US service, without feeling the need to offer any high level justification.

Cooper's intensely engulfs viewers genuinely making you feel for the man and the harshness of his conflicted situation while Miller's emotional portrayal echoingly resonant.

The verdict: Although the storyline and character portrayed may not be as pinpoint accurate as Chris' shooting history, the films treatment is sheer quality.

Published : Canberra Weekly Magazine.

Date of Publication : 29/01/2015.