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| Bradley Cooper stars in American Sniper |
Round of Applause for the Legend
Rotten Tomatoes Plot: From director Clint Eastwood comes "American Sniper," starring Bradley Cooper as Chris Kyle, the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history. But there was much more to this true American hero than his skill with a rifle. U.S. Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle is sent to Iraq with only one mission: to protect his brothers-in-arms. His pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and, as stories of his courageous exploits spread, he earns the nickname "Legend." However, his reputation is also growing behind enemy lines, putting a price on his head and making him a prime target of insurgents. Despite the danger, as well as the toll on his family at home, Chris serves through four harrowing tours of duty in Iraq, becoming emblematic of the SEAL creed to "leave no man behind." But upon returning home, Chris finds that it is the war he can't leave behind.
There's lots to like about American Sniper (namely Cooper, who's sensational) but I must admit... I wanted more. Eastwood does a great job of balancing Kyle's personal life with war; and Cooper takes care of the rest. Unfortunately, everyone else gets lost amidst the bleak Iraqi background... so much so, it's hard to feel anything for anyone (save Kyle.) More (any) music would help; and the pursuit of an Iraqi sniper and fellow bad guy (The Butcher) gives it a Steven Seagal-esque feel. Be wary of to-be-expected glorification; but credit Eastwood for hitting his target more often than not.
Grade: B-
