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0

whiskia96Jan 27, 2015

A sick, repulsive piece of propaganda that not only ignores the moral quandaries associated with America's involvement in the Middle East, but portray's American soldiers as paragons of virtue and camaraderie, and their foes as savage dogs,A sick, repulsive piece of propaganda that not only ignores the moral quandaries associated with America's involvement in the Middle East, but portray's American soldiers as paragons of virtue and camaraderie, and their foes as savage dogs, with not a shade of grey in sight.… Expand

27 of 42 users found this helpful2715

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3

leaveitJan 20, 2015

Decent acting, embarrassingly bad effects, forgettable score, cheesy script, and most importantly, subpar direction. A biography of a stereotypical US soldier (sailor in this case) doing and saying stereotypical US soldier things. ClintDecent acting, embarrassingly bad effects, forgettable score, cheesy script, and most importantly, subpar direction. A biography of a stereotypical US soldier (sailor in this case) doing and saying stereotypical US soldier things. Clint Eastwood submits his interpretation of a life story written by someone who actually fought hard in a war rather than skipping around in booty shorts at the pool while everyone else's feet got frostbitten and the result is predictable - six Oscar nominations and a painfully overrated movie. January has come.… Expand

17 of 29 users found this helpful1712

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4

LowbrowCinemaDec 26, 2014

Telling the true story of American sniper Chris Kyle, AMERICAN SNIPER plods along through four very long tours of duty with no real point. War is not hell here. The opposing forces and people are "savages." The American soldiers brave andTelling the true story of American sniper Chris Kyle, AMERICAN SNIPER plods along through four very long tours of duty with no real point. War is not hell here. The opposing forces and people are "savages." The American soldiers brave and powerful. And yet, despite all this director Clint Eastwood seems to be making a flag waving patriotic American celebration. Or is he? And that's the problem. The film lacks all conviction and becomes just a long bore. If you've seen the absolutely brilliant trailer, you will totally miss the moral dilemma inherent in that 60 seconds. The film which runs over two hours never hits that level. Ultimately, AMERICAN SNIPER feels like a tepid remake of THE HURT LOCKER.… Expand

28 of 49 users found this helpful2821

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0

666santanballsJan 22, 2015

Eastwood’s movie begins by exploiting a historically inaccurate delusion and, then, sustains itself for two hours on the mission to protect US soldiers against the insurgency that arose in opposition to the US invasion and occupation based onEastwood’s movie begins by exploiting a historically inaccurate delusion and, then, sustains itself for two hours on the mission to protect US soldiers against the insurgency that arose in opposition to the US invasion and occupation based on the initial delusion.
It is amazing how easy it is to lead the 'Merican sheep by their nose. The media and the government have an easy job.… Expand

20 of 36 users found this helpful2016

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5

ProteusDec 26, 2014

"I like war" and "I love killing bad guys" are 2 Chris Kyle quotes I will remember. The movie provides a decent insight into the guy but fails to provide any ethical reasons for killing hundreds of people during war. Kyle gets major credit"I like war" and "I love killing bad guys" are 2 Chris Kyle quotes I will remember. The movie provides a decent insight into the guy but fails to provide any ethical reasons for killing hundreds of people during war. Kyle gets major credit for doing his job well and gets zero credit for asking whether the job needed to be done.… Expand

20 of 37 users found this helpful2017

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0

xiaolinstyleJan 21, 2015

This is Eastwood's jingoistic pander to Republicans. Nothing more nothing less. It has little value beyond a propaganda piece and as an American I am throughly embarrassed to see it released. It should be shunned.

21 of 39 users found this helpful2118

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3

royphishoohJan 17, 2015

Nothing new here. Same old American war film cliches. Bradley Cooper does his best with poor lines, a slow story and Eastwood's Republican attempted justification for an unjustifiable war. "The Green Berets" for the twenty-first century.

18 of 34 users found this helpful1816

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0

kinoralphJan 21, 2015

This film have no point and serves no purpose. The action scenes are awesome but the main story is a drag. Its just a schizophrenic 's wet dream or maybe another delirium of greatness of mr. Eastwood?

15 of 29 users found this helpful1514

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4

listenerDec 30, 2014

Bad guys are bad guys and killing bad guys is not a bad thing...if only truth is that simple.Solidly directed by occasionally brilliant Clint Eastwood and well acted biopic but also piece of work that cowardly avoids to adress any of its ownBad guys are bad guys and killing bad guys is not a bad thing...if only truth is that simple.Solidly directed by occasionally brilliant Clint Eastwood and well acted biopic but also piece of work that cowardly avoids to adress any of its own burning ethical questions ending like being not much more then narrow minded war propaganda.… Expand

21 of 41 users found this helpful2120

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1

jayifertJan 17, 2015

This movie does no service to the men & women in uniform. Trying to combine entertainment to a war film while barely touching on real character development, I personally felt cheated. Add in "bullet time" effects and an obviously fake babyThis movie does no service to the men & women in uniform. Trying to combine entertainment to a war film while barely touching on real character development, I personally felt cheated. Add in "bullet time" effects and an obviously fake baby scene (seriously?), I wondered if this was the trolling of the year. War is not supposed to be amusing and that's what this movie tries to do.… Expand

19 of 39 users found this helpful1920

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1

AkashVijayJan 18, 2015

Eastwood tackles the subject matter in quintessential "America Good, everyone else Bad" mindset. It's about time people start understanding the moral complexities that arise in these battles.

17 of 36 users found this helpful1719

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0

high90Jan 8, 2015

I watched this in amazement, was he supposed to be a hero ? No a deranged maniac would be a more accurate assessment. If I have to have life's purpose is to die a hero cultural propaganda please at least make if mildly entertaining. TheI watched this in amazement, was he supposed to be a hero ? No a deranged maniac would be a more accurate assessment. If I have to have life's purpose is to die a hero cultural propaganda please at least make if mildly entertaining. The pregnant wife melodrama, the constant militaristic bull. They are evil less than human, savages so that allows us to kill them, whatever lets you sleep at night, literally. Utter reheated garbage.… Expand

29 of 83 users found this helpful2954

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10

mukushleDec 30, 2014

One of the major tenets of Clint Eastwood's ebullient career is his commitment to surprising us. He continually pursued unexpected projects - from female boxing to the Japanese wartime point of view. If you were to guess who was going toOne of the major tenets of Clint Eastwood's ebullient career is his commitment to surprising us. He continually pursued unexpected projects - from female boxing to the Japanese wartime point of view. If you were to guess who was going to direct The Bridges of Madison County (1995) or Jersey Boys (2014), Eastwood would be near the bottom of the list.

In 2014 he accomplished one of his best surprises. After years in which he seemed to have lost his touch and even his spirit, Eastwood came roaring back.

American Sniper is essential Eastwood. The film - based on actual sniper Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) who served four tours in Iraq - has intriguing levels and potency. Ennio Morricone's music at the end brings Eastwood's phenomenal career echoing back.

Eastwood can make films that appeal both to conservatives and liberals. That's a rare ability. American Sniper is one of those films.… Expand

26 of 80 users found this helpful2654

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0

zNeverSleepingSep 24, 2020

"American Sniper" é um filme raso, presunçoso, que enaltece a imagem de um homem e, ao tentar desenvolvê-lo, acaba deixando claro quão unidimensional o patriota americano pode ser, aos olhos do roteirista alienado.

Clint Eastwood tenta, de"American Sniper" é um filme raso, presunçoso, que enaltece a imagem de um homem e, ao tentar desenvolvê-lo, acaba deixando claro quão unidimensional o patriota americano pode ser, aos olhos do roteirista alienado.

Clint Eastwood tenta, de todas as formas possíveis, pintar nossa percepção de quem Chris Kyle era. Com um patriotismo exacerbado, um senso de heroísmo que só existe na cabeça de patriotas cegos, uma visão distante da "lenda" que ele foi, uma abordagem do "bem e do mal" - como se isso justificasse alguma coisa; o filme torna-se artificial, e ao tentar aprofundar os traumas que o protagonista passou, tudo se torna deveras contraditório, pois os temas não são abordados de maneira imparcial ou distante. Fica extremamente claro que a direção quer nois vender uma imagem do protagonista, e ao tentar desenvolver qualquer coisa além desses conceitos, ela falha, tornando-o unidimensional.

Há demasiados diálogos expositivos, e eu sei que aqui o proposito era fazer um filme pra todos, mas a obra chegou a um ponto de chamar o publico de burro nos explicando tudo. O senso antagônico criado pelo Sniper adversário é cringe e não funciona, assim como a passagem de tempo existente no filme. Ele passou anos e anos no Iraque, mas a sensação é que ele tá lá há uma semana. O roteiro falha em tentar cobrir toda a vida do atirador de elite, pois nada tem seu tempo de tela desenvolvido, e as coisas acabam se tornando uma bagunça.

Ao invés de trazer uma leitura de personagem rica, aqui os produtores decidem trazer uma visão própria de quem foi o Chris Kyle, forçando conceitos a todo momento, falhando em desenvolvê-lo de maneira funcional, alienando os espectadores e enaltecendo uma imagem que os EUA insiste em passar pro mundo. Nota 0.

Audio: English, with portuguese subtitles - Q60T 50' TV Speakers [5.1]
Quality: 1080p SDR [Netflix]… Expand

7 of 7 users found this helpful70

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8

tontoJun 18, 2021

Clint Eastwood's American Sniper is probably the best movie featuring the War on Terror that has been made. In it, our hero, Chris Kyle played by Bradley Cooper is presented as a young man growing up in Texas and we see that his girlfriend isClint Eastwood's American Sniper is probably the best movie featuring the War on Terror that has been made. In it, our hero, Chris Kyle played by Bradley Cooper is presented as a young man growing up in Texas and we see that his girlfriend is cheating on him. Later, he meets his beautiful wife played by Sienna Miller in a bar. We see Chris Kyle react to the September 11th attacks and he enlists in the military to fight terrorists in the middle east. Kyle is deployed in Iraq and we see his escapades as the most deadly sniper in the U.S. military. Iraq had been listed as a State sponsor of terrorism by the U.S. since 1990, when Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. Iraq had also been on the list from 1979 to 1982; it was removed so that the U.S. could provide material support to Iraq in its war with Iran. Hussein's regime had proven to be a problem for the UN and Iraq's neighbors due to its use of chemical weapons against Iranians and Kurds in the 1980s. The Iraq War began in March 2003 with an air campaign, which was immediately followed by a U.S.-led ground invasion. The Bush administration cited UNSC Resolution 1441, which warned of "serious consequences" for violations such as Iraq possessing weapons of mass destruction. The Bush administration also stated the Iraq war was part of the War on Terror, as Saddam Hussein was a radical Sunni muslim, leader of the Baathist party who may have had ties to Al-Queda. The movie is gripping, and you're pulling for Kyle who is tough and gallant. One criticism I have of the movie is it doesn't show many airstrikes, it only features one in the entire movie, when I know we bombed the hell out of Iraq. But it wants to focus on the sniping on the ground so its acceptable. The movie can get pretty exciting and intense. There are some cool action sequences with American marines going up against terrorists. The movie does a good job depicting PTSD caused by the trauma of war, as Kyle has to deal with these problems after his exploits in the middle east. There is a well-directed scene at a barbeque where Kyle freaks out with a dog and it disturbs his wife. The movie ends tragically, as we are told Chris Kyle is killed by a mentally disturbed veteran he was trying to help. Overall, a good tribute to an American although controversial, was virtuous and a hero.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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1

RenovatiaOct 12, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is not it guys. I'm sorry but I have to be very negative. I realize some can't stand any negativity, so I ask you to read this at your own discretion.

Let's begin with the movie. No spoilers. Just let me say it wasn't much better than the usual straight-to-TV movie. The budget was somewhat higher, but this is where the good stuff pretty much ends. Don't expect awesome sniper-stuff or anything like that. In fact, the little bit you saw was utter nonsense. I served myself and I can tell you, not even regular troops were like that; very unrealistic and unprofessional. You get to look through the scope, so let me tell you it's a made up nonsensical thing they came up with.

This movie is a drama first and foremost. It's about the inner person of Chris Kyle, his partner, his life. As mentioned before, none of it was done right, convincingly nor was I moved to care.

The movie is based on a book of a soldier who's known to 'shoot first, ask questions later'. This is what his comrades said. This makes the 200 kills suspicious from the get-go. Needless to say that his colleagues put this carefully in the media and anonymous. And needless to say that the main stream media didn't pursue this angle.

Chris Kyle is the same person who needed to ridicule Jesse Ventura in his book. He supposedly floored Ventura. Ventura sued the Kyle estate and won the case. What's interesting is that no SEAL witness could produce a consistent story even though they were there. This angered the Jury, as they explained in the media, and hence allowed Ventura to win the case.

They (the anti-Ventura SEALS) subsequently complained in the media that 'what happens inside should stay inside'. It supposedly is a unwritten SEAL code (cliché cliché). But none of them was consistent enough to mention that Kyle ignored that very same rule! In fact, he ridiculed an ex-colleague in a commercial and publicly available book. How is that for double standards? Even though Ventura won the case, he is practically out of job since then.

American Sniper is the same guy who bragged about shooting looters after Katrina. I'm sorry but bragging about it is not right.

I'm aware of the popularity of the SEALs around the globe. But because of their policy to be visible in the media (they made that choice few years ago), their ugly side shines through as well. Too often they communicate and behave like stereotypes who use too much anabolics.

Thank you and see you next time!… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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6

killing4bloodJul 1, 2015

It just feels to me that the movie should of been better. A lot of the times it was so slow and it was kinda long. But the best part was at the end I liked what they did there.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

RvwFromUpHereMay 25, 2016

Who: Bradley Cooper, Tons of CSI B Actors, and Sienna Miller as Every Southern Boy's Dream Girl
What: A well made film that can't help but shove America down everyone's throat
Where: 'Murica When (Can I watch again): When you need toWho: Bradley Cooper, Tons of CSI B Actors, and Sienna Miller as Every Southern Boy's Dream Girl
What: A well made film that can't help but shove America down everyone's throat
Where: 'Murica
When (Can I watch again): When you need to research topics of conversation for your morally questionable southern relatives
Why: If you've just watched a ton of Michael Moore documentaries and need to watch something ironically, or you need to be reminded why America is so badass, American Sniper has something for everyone… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

reviewfrom19842Sep 7, 2016

Pretty good movie I love how this movie gets you to like the charters and care about. I now that a lot of people hate this movie ( that is fine) but just because it takes place in the Iraq war does mean this movie is propaganda. I think thatPretty good movie I love how this movie gets you to like the charters and care about. I now that a lot of people hate this movie ( that is fine) but just because it takes place in the Iraq war does mean this movie is propaganda. I think that Iraq war was a horrible awful idea but I still love this movie for it's story and charters not because I JUST LOVE MURICA AND IT COMPLTELY AMAZING that's ****… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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4

OpinionatedGuyFeb 4, 2015

I tried my very best to review this movie without putting in my political opinions. But I have to say something about this movie.

This movie is a war propaganda movie. If you think showing dead bodies with blood and having one characterI tried my very best to review this movie without putting in my political opinions. But I have to say something about this movie.

This movie is a war propaganda movie. If you think showing dead bodies with blood and having one character against war itself is considered enough an anti-war movie, then I am afraid you’re wrong. I believe that the director of the movie Clint Eastwood is an anti-war person despite being a Republican and he tries to deliver his anti-war message to the audience. But when the message is lost in the audience and instead encourages more war and Islamphobia, then I am afraid his so-called anti-war message is not delivered clearly.

Speaking of Clint Eastwood, his direction in this movie is okay. I have seen far better directing on war movies.

The characters in the movie are utterly unlikable and uninteresting. The main character Chris Kyle is really hard to sympathize and relate to especially that the Chris Kyle in real life turns out to be a huge dick. Despite that, Bradley Cooper delivers a really good performance that it’s almost uncanny to the real Chris Kyle.

Not all movies based on a real person has to be accurate but when this movie made Chris Kyle a hero with little to no flaws when he is a huge dick in real life like I said earlier, that kind of inaccuracy is unfair and biased.

The only parts I liked about this movie was how Chris Kyle dealt with his PTSD and it felt realistic without being over the top. However I feel like these scenes were underdeveloped and I needed more of him struggling with his PTSD.

Lastly, I don’t think this movie is worthy a Best Picture nomination for this year’s Oscars. It’s just another war movie that brings up nothing new to the table. It’s just overrated in Oscar terms for me.

American Sniper is not a movie for everyone and in my opinion it’s very overrated. I am not stopping you from watching this movie but keep in mind while watching is that this movie has a one-sided depiction of war and the real-life version of Chris Kyle is not a nice human being.… Expand

6 of 8 users found this helpful62

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6

Jetpil0tJan 28, 2015

So this movie is well overrated due to it's subject and story. Nothing here stands out as interesting or original as a film and while everything here is good, it's certainly not great and nowhere near Eastwood's best.

Oscar nominations?So this movie is well overrated due to it's subject and story. Nothing here stands out as interesting or original as a film and while everything here is good, it's certainly not great and nowhere near Eastwood's best.

Oscar nominations? Please, we all know what that's about.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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2

GamestaUKMar 5, 2015

I expected a war movie, but this is, sadly, just a boring, dull millitainment production. Bradly Cooper is always good, and he did a decent job here, but the movie has just one positive note - It's still better than Twilight or Fifty Shades of Grey.

8 of 11 users found this helpful83

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1

mririshfoxFeb 23, 2015

A delusional movie made by a delusional old has-been, based on a twisted book written by a delusional sociopath. staring a fake baby. and an okay(?) Bradley cooper.
propaganda at best.
disgusting Razzie nominee at worst.

10 of 14 users found this helpful104

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4

firehazard42Feb 19, 2015

I feel sad that this movie is doing well. Not because its a bad movie. I can live with crap making money. What I CAN'T deal with is the crazy patriotism "movement" this movie is somehow bringing up. The movie is both objectively bad and kindI feel sad that this movie is doing well. Not because its a bad movie. I can live with crap making money. What I CAN'T deal with is the crazy patriotism "movement" this movie is somehow bringing up. The movie is both objectively bad and kind of mean-spirited. Because of it's blandness and lack of punch, it seems that most people interpret it as some kind of reassurance. Painting us as the good guys and anyone with a turban on their heads as terrorists. It pains me to think people genuinely believe this movie is about patriotism and righteousness, when it clearly isn't.

To be clear: I don't hate this movie because I'm anti-american. I don't hate it because its an objectively bad film. I don't even hate it because of its lack of patriotism or clear message. I hate it because it allowed people to spill out their blind, hate filled rage at others and still manage to make them seem and feel in the right.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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7

bfoore90Jun 19, 2016

I'm a liberal and I actually enjoyed this movie. I know that seems like a glowing contradiction because liberals aren't supposed to like things like this but I like to think I consider myself impartial when it comes to movies. The movie isI'm a liberal and I actually enjoyed this movie. I know that seems like a glowing contradiction because liberals aren't supposed to like things like this but I like to think I consider myself impartial when it comes to movies. The movie is masterfully directed by Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper does an amazing job as Chris Kyle but with that being said, American Sniper was as close as you can get to being right-wing propaganda. The first thing it does as portray the Iraqis as the bad guys who are responsible for 9/11 despite them having nothing to do with 9/11. The 2nd thing this movie does wrong is paint Chris Kyle as a conflicted soldier, where if you read his book he actually was not very remorseful about the people he killed. I mean lets be real here, Chris Kyle was an absolutely terrible person. I'll go even as far to say he was a psychopath, he said it himself that he loved killing and that he would kill anyone with a kuron which is what basically everyone wears over there. Kyle was no hero, he was a monster, a repulsive and sick man who was a pathological liar that forged his military accomplishments and kill count to sell books. He was also, however like many soldiers in the middle east were taken advantage of by Bush/Cheney's quest for "WMD"s aka oil.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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8

pesho_oneApr 1, 2015

I didn't expect much, but I knew that the movie was about war. Then I also don't know the actual events (as described in the book). Nevertheless, the movie has a very good feel of reality to it. It is far from boring, and you are wellI didn't expect much, but I knew that the movie was about war. Then I also don't know the actual events (as described in the book). Nevertheless, the movie has a very good feel of reality to it. It is far from boring, and you are well interested in what will happen almost at all times. The main actors are convincing and it is hard not to relate. Bottom line: one quality movie based on real events which does not disappoint.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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7

Jess_HillJul 12, 2015

A good, though over-hyped, film. The performances are excellent, both Cooper and Miller are dynamic and believable in their roles. The cinematography was generally solid for this kind of film, and the score was typical of an American warA good, though over-hyped, film. The performances are excellent, both Cooper and Miller are dynamic and believable in their roles. The cinematography was generally solid for this kind of film, and the score was typical of an American war story. The pacing was very well considered and the final sequence was masterfully executed. The moral subtext is where criticism is warranted as this is a film which posits the hero as a representative of the entire conflict in Iraq and, as such, any commentary on the nature of war or that particular conflict is decidedly one-dimensional. This may be expected from an Eastwood film, however, it's clear that not only is the moral quandry not central to the plot, it is also treated with disdain in the dialogue, which may play well for an American audience, but smacks of the 'MURICA mentality rather than good storytelling. A solid bo-yah film with little depth. 6.86/10… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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1

VT1971Jan 27, 2015

The worst case of war propaganda since WW2,so full of lies that is almost unbearable to digest for any sane human being.It portraits notorious mass murderer and psychopath like some kind of national hero also trying to justify one of USThe worst case of war propaganda since WW2,so full of lies that is almost unbearable to digest for any sane human being.It portraits notorious mass murderer and psychopath like some kind of national hero also trying to justify one of US imperialistic wars like fighting against terrorism which is completely false.With this movie Clint Eastwood-once significant director which makes this whole affair even more sad- place himself in the company of likes Joseph Goebbels and Leni Riefenstahl.… Expand

13 of 21 users found this helpful138

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2

BenardenJan 28, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Found this latest " Kill For Peace" movie second rate.
Unlike " The Hurt Locker" or "Full Metal Jacket" or "Apocalypse Now"
there is very little drama, and no tension.
Second, the sound is so bad they should have used subtitles. And the plot ? A young , coming from a
simplistic, brutal background ,graduates from killing deer to to killing other people from far away. He likes it, and goes back for four tours of duty.
I couldn't connect with, identify or like the hero. Not quite a walk out
but close.

Would have been better off seeing " Paddington".… Expand

9 of 15 users found this helpful96

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3

RESISTANCEJan 23, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I gave this movie a low rating for Hollywood technical FAILS ! Just watched the 2 trailers for this movie. In the first 45 seconds I picked out 7 things wrong that a trained sniper , or an Expert Navy SEAL Sniper would never,ever do. 1. Not have his scope covered sometimes in the movie, 2. Not having his mat in front of his weapon to prevent air from the shot disturbing the dust in front of him and revealing his position, 3. Not covering his G-shock watch to prevent sun reflections, 4. Not covering his compass on his shoulder to prevent sun reflections, 5. his spotter/soldier next to him wearing highly reflective goggles, 6. not covering his ammo to prevent sun reflections, 7. A sniper would most definitely not being clearing rooms and teaching regular troops how to do it.

I've read several accounts of how things in Chris's book have been changed to be very different than the movie. Not sure why Clint did not keep it accurate to the books as the accuracy of facts would not have detracted from the movie. Other specs ops in the SEAL family have also made similar comments.

This is not Saving Private Ryan where there, the battle scenes were extremly realistic and quite accurate to the real D-Day event, most of the inconsistencies lie within the names of people in the movie as well as names of battles and cities. Not in the actual portrayal of the soldiers and the events on D-Day.

Chris was definitely a hero with skills, no doubt or argument there. He was no better and no worse than the other thousands of troops that lay their life on the line everyday or the ones who have fought and died for this country in any war. Everyone who enlists in the military is a hero.… Expand

9 of 15 users found this helpful96

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1

koquitoJan 24, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As everyone knows, Clint Eastwood’s AMERICAN SNIPER (2015) is, as of this writing (January 24, 2015), a surprise smash hit in the United States. Various postulates as to its success have been formulated: its belated offering of Iraq War cartharsis or even justification; its tight filtering of historical events through a single, largely sympathetic protagonist (memorably played by Bradley Cooper); or simply a highly effective publicity campaign. My own suspicion is that the film is fundamentally about war-themed video games – or rather, is a successful attempt to capitalize on those games’ colossal popularity.
That the film’s iconography, sensibility and rhythm are at one with such games is too obvious to require comment: even I’ve played enough to know that. But I think that part of what the film does is convince its audience that playing those games is actually a form of civic participation, requiring concentration, commitment and self-sacrifice.
Clint lets the cat out of the bag near the end of the film, when Chris Kyle’s kids are playing some game or other (“Level 4, daddy!”), but I think it’s best to read the atavistic scenes of “hunting” in the film as figures for the perceptual (and political) pedagogy offered by war-video games. In other words, what the film does is construct one of those good ol’ four-level allegories familiar from medieval times, enabling the private wargames-player (the “moral” level) to insert him/herself into the “legend” of Chris Kyle (the “typological” level), and thereby connect to the larger destiny of the imperial nation as such (the “anagogical” level). The “literal” level, the history of the Iraq conflict, serves as nothing more than material for these figurations, to be arranged and rearranged like the body parts in the torture chamber.
The point of doing this, of course, is to siphon off some of the enormous libidinal/capital investment in such games - the film is doing huge business! - by providing a gratifying political emplotment of that investment (as a form of civic commitment). After all, you can even jeopardize your precious family life if you spend too much time trying to defeat the (computerized or “savage”) enemy: yet despite these existential risks, the vindication will come, draped in the flag, somewhere down the road….… Expand

9 of 15 users found this helpful96

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5

CelticViewJan 25, 2015

An appalling attempt at movie-making. Bradley Cooper is NOT acting in this film - not sure what he doing, but it is not acting, and, he look ridiculous. The story was OK, but it's delivery bordered on the jingoistic.

Worth a watch, butAn appalling attempt at movie-making. Bradley Cooper is NOT acting in this film - not sure what he doing, but it is not acting, and, he look ridiculous. The story was OK, but it's delivery bordered on the jingoistic.

Worth a watch, but really not that good.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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6

BshopJan 25, 2015

It's difficult to judge what the overall goal was - on one hand, you feel like Chris Kyle is a true hero; the other, it's sad what he went through to get there.
Very well-made with a flash-forward action sequence in the beginning, then a fewIt's difficult to judge what the overall goal was - on one hand, you feel like Chris Kyle is a true hero; the other, it's sad what he went through to get there.
Very well-made with a flash-forward action sequence in the beginning, then a few flash-backs, then back to the "present-day" as it continues along. Very well presented.
I'd say if this movie was released over Christmas time in the large formats, it would have been a slam-dunk for a movie instead of the bland re-hashes out there.
In summary, if you want to examine the physique of a sniper, this movie delves in part to it. The other half however, does not present itself well - is the unexamined life worth living/dyeing?… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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2

JBBuFeb 17, 2015

What a deftly made propaganda film! Not Leni Riefenstahl, but a 2015 update version by the died in the wool right winger, Clint Eastwood. Like that propaganda film that justifies illegal torture, “Zero Dark Thirty”, it is excellentWhat a deftly made propaganda film! Not Leni Riefenstahl, but a 2015 update version by the died in the wool right winger, Clint Eastwood. Like that propaganda film that justifies illegal torture, “Zero Dark Thirty”, it is excellent filmmaking. It is superbly paced and the photography is top notch. The soundtrack is riveting. The acting is excellent. And we sympathize with the protagonist who is a folksy hero. The bad guys are indeed bad. These “savages” (as “we’ call them time and again) drill holes in children’s’ heads for their parents betrayals and brutally attack our hero and his buddies. There are moments of decent that almost redeem it such as Kyle’s Brother’s shell-shocked rant on the war. However there is no mention of the 600,000 plus war related deaths (according to the Lancet) or that the drilling torturer was in fact modelled on a Sunni ally, or the US torture at Abu Ghraib, nor of course is there any mention of the innocents killed by snipers (as revealed by Wikileaks). We hear nothing of Fallujah’s American atrocities against real people with real families. We hear nothing of being led into this war under at misinformation and often outright lies (such as the Niger uranium, the chemical sites shown at the UN by Powell or the Al Qaeda training in Iraq… of none which is known to have existed.)… Expand

7 of 12 users found this helpful75

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0

MelancholicAlcApr 10, 2015

Probably the worst movie of the last 10 years, it cements Eastwoods status as a senile Talker-to-Empty-Chairs, a sad end to a pretty good career! If he off sets this one with a movie from the PoV of the Iraqis, I'll reconsider.
The mostProbably the worst movie of the last 10 years, it cements Eastwoods status as a senile Talker-to-Empty-Chairs, a sad end to a pretty good career! If he off sets this one with a movie from the PoV of the Iraqis, I'll reconsider.
The most hilarious part about this movie is that ALL of mr. Killers kills are so totally justified! Sure, he kills a ten year old and his mom, but hey, they were trying to kill AMEh'cans, the self-declared elitists of the world
That's .... like. BLASPHEMY, yo!

This piece of crap only serves as an American chest thumping device. Yes, indeed the main message of the movie is: Americans good, brown people baaaaaaaaaaaaad. American exceptionalism indeed.
sub message: the murderous SoB promises us to feel really bad about ambushing 150 "enemies"
Sure dude, if America was invaded, Americans would NOT do what the Iraqis did?
Hell, Americans already PRETEND the country is invaded!!

The Melancholic Alcoholic… Expand

8 of 14 users found this helpful86

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4

oDjentoJan 24, 2015

AMERICA. AMERICA. AMERICA SAVED US ALL. This film is just total progaganda: Americans are heroes and true warriors whilst the rest are savages and bad guys and none of them can be trusted. It doesn't even fully cover the post traumatic stressAMERICA. AMERICA. AMERICA SAVED US ALL. This film is just total progaganda: Americans are heroes and true warriors whilst the rest are savages and bad guys and none of them can be trusted. It doesn't even fully cover the post traumatic stress soldiers can end up having, that's just something that's there. Also, Bradley coopers face doesn't look right as a cowboy, completely miscast. However, he still acts fine in the film really! There wasn't any real stand out scenes in this movie either really, and i found the whole back and forth war to home transitions a little forced. Also, the villains they make in the film feel unnecessary and kinda stupid. I'm pretty sure they weren't in the book either and apparently the film just takes a big dump on the source material. The film is still decent enough to watch, but it is so propaganda orientated and a bit dull. I wanted to really see how Chris Kyle evolved. The ending was pretty meh also. I wish they could have honoured the soldier a little better than this film does!… Expand

8 of 14 users found this helpful86

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5

Brent_MarchantJan 17, 2015

A complex character in a complex setting deserves a better vehicle for telling his story than what this overrated, underwhelming and at times simplistic effort has to offer. Despite a solid performance by Bradley Cooper, the picture comes upA complex character in a complex setting deserves a better vehicle for telling his story than what this overrated, underwhelming and at times simplistic effort has to offer. Despite a solid performance by Bradley Cooper, the picture comes up short by focusing on protracted battlefield sequences at the expense of truly meaningful character development. The film misses the mark by giving only cursory attention to the real story here -- a character's struggle to deal with his beliefs in the face of a reality where those ideals are routinely put to the test, as well as the aftermath and recovery from that experience, A major disappointment, especially in light of its six mostly ill-deserved Oscar nominations.… Expand

8 of 14 users found this helpful86

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6

Trev29Jan 9, 2015

The movie succeeds on a technical level, although I can't say I was overly impressed on the whole. While Bradley Cooper nails the role, the mostly boring war sequences consumes too much of the movie.

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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3

TubeyApr 10, 2015

Eastwood's worst directed movie ever, and Bradley Cooper is so bad in this that he has redefined what the word "acting" means in a bad way.

It's just a ludicrously plotted, terribly paced borefest of a movie that probably looked better onEastwood's worst directed movie ever, and Bradley Cooper is so bad in this that he has redefined what the word "acting" means in a bad way.

It's just a ludicrously plotted, terribly paced borefest of a movie that probably looked better on the drawing board than it did in execution. It is also blatant propaganda for the USA - this wouldn't have looked out of place in Nazi Germany or North Korea, yet bizarrely it doesn't even do that right as the whole think makes the protagonist look like a complete maniac. Perhaps that's what Eastwood was going for - the maniac who was green lighted due to patriotic fervor or something - but the movie doesn't communicate that point well at all. Everything is so ambiguous,

Anyway, you're not missing anything by not watching this. Watch The Hurt Locker again if you want something like this, but done competently.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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8

vikesh2206Apr 3, 2015

While not for the faint hearted, the often harrowing "American Sniper" is a solid if not spectacular war epic by Clint Eastwood. It is well acted by its leads and delivers a tense tribute to the late American sniper, Chris Kyle.

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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5

nicholasbertJan 10, 2015

American Sniper has its moments (for me, it was the sandstorm scene), but the film didn't quite take off. Maybe it was the constant back and forth from home to warzone, or the overused "soldier and his wife" drama, or the lack of empathy forAmerican Sniper has its moments (for me, it was the sandstorm scene), but the film didn't quite take off. Maybe it was the constant back and forth from home to warzone, or the overused "soldier and his wife" drama, or the lack of empathy for the protagonist, I don't know. I don't think Bradley Cooper had the right face for his character, even though he acts just fine throughout.

A major lack of detail lets itself known, also: where's the score, where's the cinematography?… Expand

9 of 16 users found this helpful97

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5

JamesLFeb 5, 2015

The lack of historical accuracy wore down my enjoyment of this film after a couple of days. Eastwood has The right to present any view of the war he wants to. However to imply that Iraq attacked us, do not tell that IRAQ is Sunni, Shia, andThe lack of historical accuracy wore down my enjoyment of this film after a couple of days. Eastwood has The right to present any view of the war he wants to. However to imply that Iraq attacked us, do not tell that IRAQ is Sunni, Shia, and other, to imply to al-Qaeda in Iraq was there from the beginning, to act as if we won the war, the military had few doubts, etc is a disservice to our troops and to our the viewing audience in the long run.I applaud him for show the damage that a bullet to the head will do but to paint the war so simplistically is a major flaw. Did Dick Cheney write the script? No one will remember this revisionist nonsense in a few years.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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4

jjj88Jan 23, 2015

A movie with very little character development or point of view. Forget the moral ambiguity of this stupid war, nobody really changes in this movie. Fake baby, whining 'wife', and war 'buddies' who talk about their personal lives right beforeA movie with very little character development or point of view. Forget the moral ambiguity of this stupid war, nobody really changes in this movie. Fake baby, whining 'wife', and war 'buddies' who talk about their personal lives right before they get shot. Cooper, acts through chewing tobacco (and does quite well with what little he has to work with). Oh yeah, and dark haired 'bad guys'. I'd play Call of Duty before spending money on this movie.… Expand

7 of 13 users found this helpful76

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0

boeserschnapsApr 1, 2015

Normally I really like Eastwood's films and normally I really like war movies, but this one is really stupid. Sadly you get the feeling the sole purpose is propaganda for the US war machine. There is no real dealing with the problems KyleNormally I really like Eastwood's films and normally I really like war movies, but this one is really stupid. Sadly you get the feeling the sole purpose is propaganda for the US war machine. There is no real dealing with the problems Kyle encounters back home.… Expand

8 of 15 users found this helpful87

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10

testychickenJan 20, 2015

absolutely the best movie of the year, the depth that Eastwood and Cooper nail the looks and feel of being deployed. The feeling of not being over there and helping, with people you will grow closer to than even those in your family, isabsolutely the best movie of the year, the depth that Eastwood and Cooper nail the looks and feel of being deployed. The feeling of not being over there and helping, with people you will grow closer to than even those in your family, is really captured in Coopers face while sitting at the VA. It became really hard to hold back the tears during the credits as they showed the love and support that Chief Kyle received after his passing. Best movie winner, hands down.… Expand

9 of 17 users found this helpful98

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9

bmaster4616Jan 22, 2015

This is a movie with a lot of idiots saying this and that about it. Simply it's intense, inspiring, and sad. Throughout Chris's life he had tragedies. From his friends to himself. There has been speculation that Kyle was more of a **** thanThis is a movie with a lot of idiots saying this and that about it. Simply it's intense, inspiring, and sad. Throughout Chris's life he had tragedies. From his friends to himself. There has been speculation that Kyle was more of a **** than the movie shows. This might be true but he still shrived to help his fellow marines and fellow people out. He said that he loved killing the enemy. I don't mind this because....they were the enemy. Like he said, he will stand proud and answer to every shot he took to his creator. The ending is where it left our theater silent. You could hear a pin drop because people didn't expect something like that.
The best part is Cooper's performance. From Hangover to this, Bradley has completely revamped his career. Another great part of this was story, it just kept you engaged and the dialgogue was on point. The amazing part of this is...it's all real. These men went through this as they tried to fight for out freedoms. Give them respect that they deserved. For all the evil, it was done by people who told them to do it. He had unstoppable power to get the job done and protect those he loved the most. Overall it's the best or one of the best movies to this early 2015. 9.3.… Expand

10 of 19 users found this helpful109

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0

mbstoneFeb 14, 2015

It's not enough merely to observe that this is a right-wing propaganda movie. It's also a bad movie. It IS possible to make propaganda movies that work as movies even for viewers who don't agree with the viewpoint. Case in point: The originalIt's not enough merely to observe that this is a right-wing propaganda movie. It's also a bad movie. It IS possible to make propaganda movies that work as movies even for viewers who don't agree with the viewpoint. Case in point: The original "Red Dawn." The makers of Red Dawn really did believe that America was vulnerable to being invaded and conquered by Soviet Russia. Even though the premise of Red Dawn was and is laughable, the Wolverines were people you could root for and the movie worked.

As to American Sniper, for me the picture was one-dimensional, the plot simple and wholly predictable.… Expand

12 of 23 users found this helpful1211

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4

thefinnJan 17, 2015

Bradley Cooper made this film somewhat acceptable, however it boils down to another American propaganda piece.

It's a pity there wasn't much point to the film in the end and all the subtext was the usual "America, greatest country in theBradley Cooper made this film somewhat acceptable, however it boils down to another American propaganda piece.

It's a pity there wasn't much point to the film in the end and all the subtext was the usual "America, greatest country in the world" crap.… Expand

13 of 25 users found this helpful1312

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0

veilexJan 23, 2015

There were a few moments that were spectacular, but those moments couldn't save the rest of the movie. The undercurrent of glorifying war also left a pretty bad after taste. A movie should never be used as a propaganda tool, and even if itThere were a few moments that were spectacular, but those moments couldn't save the rest of the movie. The undercurrent of glorifying war also left a pretty bad after taste. A movie should never be used as a propaganda tool, and even if it wasn't done with that in mind, this movie definitely comes across that way. If you simply must watch this movie, I'd recommend watching Blackhawk down instead… Expand

13 of 26 users found this helpful1313

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3

luacheia99Jan 25, 2015

American Sniper is a standard "meh" movie with an over hyped buzz because its director, cast and subject, as its main target audience is like "I love me a gun" and the over ego feeling of "I love me a supposedly American hero who kills themAmerican Sniper is a standard "meh" movie with an over hyped buzz because its director, cast and subject, as its main target audience is like "I love me a gun" and the over ego feeling of "I love me a supposedly American hero who kills them all".
"American Sniper" valorizes, guns, father teaching a son to use the gun and kill, muslim's xenophobia and arrogance not Altruism as heroism.
In a time where children are killing children in schools; in name of God terrorists are killing innocents around the world and a huge part of the humanity is being named terrorist just because its religion and the religious xenophobia around the world is gaining more space in society and it is so wrong.. This movie timing is awful.
Art for the masses has not to be historically accurate but "American Sniper" is so lame & socially irresponsible, domestically & worldwide for all reasons above.
Sorry.... But in my POV. You can't say that the art from a genius filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, who did institutional movies for the German nazista govern, was historical wrong and the meh movie from Clint Eastwood is not. Guarded the proportion, it is the same...
Art is art, but the industry has to have the responsibility of the time that a piece of art is out there. World is in the middle of a social mess (the last months and weeks have dozens of examples) and this movie just brings a bad image for Americans around the world. The American people doesn't deserves it. They are suffering with it.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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5

zedzdedJan 9, 2015

Mediocre... Mildly entertaining, nothing new or very fresh here. A good performance by Bradley Cooper but let's face it, the lead character is fairly one dimensional so that wasn't exactly a stretch.

And I don't feel the direction wasMediocre... Mildly entertaining, nothing new or very fresh here. A good performance by Bradley Cooper but let's face it, the lead character is fairly one dimensional so that wasn't exactly a stretch.

And I don't feel the direction was especially crisp either. However it's clear we are supposed to view Kyle as an all American hero. While his counterpart, the other sniper who does exactly the same job as him is patently a savage.

I read Kyle's book before I saw this movie and I know Eastwood has selectively ignored Kyle's complete psychopathy which was readily apparent from his own words in the book and instead attempted to portray him as an empathetic family man which I never felt from reading Kyle's words. This man loved to kill people, pure and simple. That was his motivation.

Live by the sword, die by the sword... And i could hardly feel any emotion or sympathy for someone who clearly took pleasure from killing others.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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8

BradySmithJan 19, 2015

This is a very effective, tense, extremely well acted, and ultimately moving film. Now, I don't think it's a masterpiece. There's a bit of bluntness to the filmmaking, and I think Eastwood has directed movies with more sophistication andThis is a very effective, tense, extremely well acted, and ultimately moving film. Now, I don't think it's a masterpiece. There's a bit of bluntness to the filmmaking, and I think Eastwood has directed movies with more sophistication and nuance before, but this is still a very exciting and well made war film. The battles are very intense and engrossing. The characters also felt extremely well brought to life. The human drama here is very well done. A lot of it's power comes from the completely convincing performances. This is almost certainly the best acting Cooper has ever done. He adds layers of depth to Chris and you're sympathetic for his character every step of the way. Sienna Miller also delivers a very good performance, and her character never feels underwritten or like a cliché. Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper have put together an exceptionally entertaining and moving tribute to a true hero, and they deserve major props for doing so.… Expand

9 of 18 users found this helpful99

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9

David_HJan 30, 2015

Once again Bradley Cooper proves he is far more than a pretty face and manages to transform both his affect and drastically change his physique, while pulling off what seems to be a true rendition of war hero Chris Kyle. I see some of theOnce again Bradley Cooper proves he is far more than a pretty face and manages to transform both his affect and drastically change his physique, while pulling off what seems to be a true rendition of war hero Chris Kyle. I see some of the lower score reviews are not unbiased movie reviews but more likely liberal rants from people that are afraid to use the term Islam when naming the violent enemies of not only America but of most first world nations on the planet. Having had a close family member pull two tours in Iraq, i can say this is one of the first movies that really helps a civilian understand a little of the torment and pain and sacrifice our soldiers experience. This is good enough that Cooper and Eastwood deserve Oscars. They don't delve too deeply into the struggling wife, but Sienna Miller does a good job in her role. Though we all know what happened to Kyle, I'm also glad the ending of the movie was handled with grace and didn't put us through too much agony.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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10

poppunkreviewsJan 28, 2015

Chris Kyle, the american sniper. I watched this film last night and it was amazing. To be based on a real life event and not to be full documentary it always kept me at the edge of my seat. The film contains four tours of Chris kyle's sealsChris Kyle, the american sniper. I watched this film last night and it was amazing. To be based on a real life event and not to be full documentary it always kept me at the edge of my seat. The film contains four tours of Chris kyle's seals life and shows so much action and everything he did to become the american sniper. Clint Eastwood's best film in ages/.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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5

soldierhoboJan 25, 2015

I held off writing this review, because of the Oscars and the highly politicized nature of the topic. But, I can wade in now. As a veteran of the Iraq War, I can say the movie was mediocre. The minutiae was right, almost spot on, but theI held off writing this review, because of the Oscars and the highly politicized nature of the topic. But, I can wade in now. As a veteran of the Iraq War, I can say the movie was mediocre. The minutiae was right, almost spot on, but the protagonist was simplistic to the point of idiocy. It does a great job of summing up the experience of a generation. Partying, no care in the world, then 9/11 and an urge to serve. To the streets of Baghdad and the brown desert air.

What it doesn't do a good job is showing any reaction in Kyle. He just is. No reasoning to be a SEAL (Trust me, 3 hours of freezing your balls off will make you quit if don't have a damn good reason). No introspection when he plugs a kid, when his wife pleads with him to come home, or when his teammates die. He just grunts and says "God, Country, Family.." The characters around him are so much more interesting and more deserving of a movie. Kyle is just super-soldier, who grunts at the sign of danger and leads his flock (to an early death most often). He lacks any introspection.

Add the fact that it is pretty one-sided, etc. It just lacks all depth. I just don't get the idea that Kyle was anything more than a simpleton with a gun. I haven't read the book, and with all the stuff that has happened afterwards, I'm not sure I want to. I've met enough Psychopaths and simple minds in the military. I can understand, but I can't condone blanket racism or psychopathic blood lust. But I understand what part of the soul those things arise from. Of course, I believe that most people don't succumb to those things. Kyle seems to be the kind of person who did succumb.

Overall, I'm glad the movie was made. It does at least portray the Forest Gump version of the Iraq War, and start the conversation. It's better to know that those who did not volunteer actively hate you, than to assume they just couldn't run a mile. I'm glad the chicken hawks have a new Rambo to pretend to be on the weekend. Finally, I'm glad that at least America cares again, while somewhere in Afghanistan, heroes are still doing dangerous things while we watch insipid movies. I just hope no one asks me what shooting kids was like after this....… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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6

moviegal90Jan 11, 2015

Perhaps its my fault for having high expectations for this film, but the most exciting parts of this whole movie happen during the trailer and during the last 10 minutes of the film. This film was not bad, but this film was not great. BradleyPerhaps its my fault for having high expectations for this film, but the most exciting parts of this whole movie happen during the trailer and during the last 10 minutes of the film. This film was not bad, but this film was not great. Bradley Cooper does his part in the acting and the directing by Clint Eastwood is good as well however this movie really lacks depth. War or anti war that is irrelevant, the fact is that especially the beginning is choppy and awkward. The Scenes of Chris with his wife really lacked credibility for me. I don't necessarily think that it had to do with the acting or the directing but rather the setup and the script. Those scenes did not particularly do anything to make me care about the story line and didn't give any credit to the layers that these individuals have.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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5

I8yourreviewMay 5, 2015

American Sniper has probably been criticized too harshly than it deserves, but then again it did NOT deserve an Oscar nomination either. As a fictional character-focus set withing a war film Eastwood's American Sniper is grade A, albeitAmerican Sniper has probably been criticized too harshly than it deserves, but then again it did NOT deserve an Oscar nomination either. As a fictional character-focus set withing a war film Eastwood's American Sniper is grade A, albeit lowbrow, cinema. However, this is not a fictional tale or at least its not supposed to be. THe Iraq war really happened and the main character Chris Kyle, who's book the film was based, was a real person whom met a tragic and ironic end.

Eastwood's portrayal of Chris Kyle as a saintly soldier who feels at war with himself when home and at home when at war is an overdone and oversimplified amalgamation of every war-hero protagonist of this genre of film. Chris Kyle's actual book and subsequent interviews reveal a much more conflicted, complex and interesting character. Kyle's allegiances, honor and duty stand in contrast and conflict with his biases. Not only does Kyle use slurs to describe Arabs in his book and elsewhere, he also makes no distinctions between combatants and civilians. Instead of exploring this aspect of Kyle and how it informs his experience, Eastwood decides to translates this contradiction in the most condescending of ways--Every Arab in his film is either evil or one dimensional: a psychopath, a corrupt interpreter, a sympathizer with--or combatant for--the enemy.

In the end Eastwood's American Sniper is country-friend propaganda, unapologetic in its revision of the Iraq War as a just war, not to mention a missed opportunity to tell the true story of a conflicted and complex soldier who was both a leader and pawn; hero and villain --someone who was human.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

gdiego135Dec 4, 2015

Fantastic movie that you should watch NOW!!!! from the acting to the explosions to the dialogue it's all great, I think it portrays well what Navy seals have to go through, and the impact on their mind when they go home. Truly a beautiful movie.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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10

sirmichaelJan 18, 2016

Clint Eastwood just continues to make relevant, artful movies that have an edge while also having a touching connection. this is a gripping story about patriotism, personal conflict and the reality of not just war in general but the ongoingClint Eastwood just continues to make relevant, artful movies that have an edge while also having a touching connection. this is a gripping story about patriotism, personal conflict and the reality of not just war in general but the ongoing struggle between Good and Evil… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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0

tigerskin84Jan 24, 2015

War propaganda, yankees are heroes the others are terrorists and bad ugly people, good performance of bradley cooper and nothing more ... it reminded me the hurt locker that was also a really bad movie, Clint eastwood had done a lot betterWar propaganda, yankees are heroes the others are terrorists and bad ugly people, good performance of bradley cooper and nothing more ... it reminded me the hurt locker that was also a really bad movie, Clint eastwood had done a lot better than this with letters of iwo jima… Expand

13 of 27 users found this helpful1314

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4

ScribeHardJan 16, 2015

American Sniper is supposed to be a film about “The Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. History,” but once the closing credits rolled (without a score, which is unsettling), I left the theater with knowing only of the things The Legend had done, notAmerican Sniper is supposed to be a film about “The Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. History,” but once the closing credits rolled (without a score, which is unsettling), I left the theater with knowing only of the things The Legend had done, not of the man Chris Kyle was.… Expand

13 of 27 users found this helpful1314

All this user's reviews

3

hotfromcauldronJan 21, 2015

A bible thumping father breeds his son's killer instinct. The United States government turns him into an invincible war machine. We thank our Armed forces for sacrificing their souls for our safety.
For no matter the extent of their physicalA bible thumping father breeds his son's killer instinct. The United States government turns him into an invincible war machine. We thank our Armed forces for sacrificing their souls for our safety.
For no matter the extent of their physical damages, a tour of duty leaves emotional scars that run deep - so beautifully captured in Coming Home and Born on the Fourth of July. Cooper's Chris Kyle is the only character fleshed out- so American Sniper misses the target by focusing on his personal battle and home life ; instead of the juxtaposition between him and his arch enemy "the butcher". Homeland builds more tension in one 40 minute episode. And as in the Imitation Game, Mr. Eastwood leaves the most powerful scene to our imagination by putting it in words in the final credits-- so before we can digest the ramifications- the house lights are up. I call this a cheap shot… Expand

13 of 27 users found this helpful1314

All this user's reviews

10

Chasd3Jan 17, 2015

Move over Saving Private Ryan and Full Metal Jacket. I have a new all-time favorite war movie, American Sniper. Poignant insight into the effects of war on our American defenders while making me squirm on the edge of my seat in the mostMove over Saving Private Ryan and Full Metal Jacket. I have a new all-time favorite war movie, American Sniper. Poignant insight into the effects of war on our American defenders while making me squirm on the edge of my seat in the most suspenseful battle sequences I've ever seen. I'll be going again before it leaves theaters.… Expand

11 of 23 users found this helpful1112

All this user's reviews

9

frozenpinkyJan 19, 2015

Libs are becoming unhinged over this movie, comparing it to a Nazi propaganda film. They spout typical liberal nonsense, as if Nazi snipers are the same as American snipers. Libs are too intolerant and uncritical to understand thatLibs are becoming unhinged over this movie, comparing it to a Nazi propaganda film. They spout typical liberal nonsense, as if Nazi snipers are the same as American snipers. Libs are too intolerant and uncritical to understand that distinctions make a difference. There is nothing propaganda about this movie. It shows multiple views of the war and follows one man's attempt to do his job and struggle with the personal consequences of war. There is no sugar coating the issues. People who dismiss it as such have not seen it, or, they see it through tainted lenses--intent preceding content.
When it's a liberal themed film, they call it "wonderful, powerful, insightful, important, brave, revealing, speaking truth to power", and all the rest. When it's a conservative film, or perceived as such, it's mindless, goose-stepping propaganda. Ridiculous. This movie is great!… Expand

8 of 17 users found this helpful89

All this user's reviews

8

moviemitch96Jan 18, 2015

Bradley Cooper gives yet another great and memorable performance as real-life sniper Chris Kyle. The story itself felt somewhat formulaic in terms of a war story, but it's Cooper's performance that really makes the film worthwhile and worthBradley Cooper gives yet another great and memorable performance as real-life sniper Chris Kyle. The story itself felt somewhat formulaic in terms of a war story, but it's Cooper's performance that really makes the film worthwhile and worth watching. Along with great and reliable directing from Clint Eastwood, it's definitely a great, often times harrowing film that pays good respect and justice to the real-life Chris.… Expand

7 of 15 users found this helpful78

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7

vmd1020Jan 9, 2015

It was good, not great. Cooper was great but it was lacking as an overall picture. He was great as a stand alone but you know neither his family life or the PTSD really was focused on/developed (i.e. everything was just touched upon). GoodIt was good, not great. Cooper was great but it was lacking as an overall picture. He was great as a stand alone but you know neither his family life or the PTSD really was focused on/developed (i.e. everything was just touched upon). Good movie though, I'd definitely watch it again just wasn't my favorite.… Expand

6 of 13 users found this helpful67

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9

MovieGuysJan 24, 2015

American Sniper is a daring, refreshing return to form for Eastwood. After such films such as Jersey Boys (ha), Clint finally realized his talent again in this intense Iraq war character study. The film follows unflinching legendary sniperAmerican Sniper is a daring, refreshing return to form for Eastwood. After such films such as Jersey Boys (ha), Clint finally realized his talent again in this intense Iraq war character study. The film follows unflinching legendary sniper Navy Seal Chris Kyle as he completes four tours in the war, all the while watching his squad mates die and his wife beg him to come home. Bradley Cooper does an excellent job portraying Kyle; just one look at his character's face, and you know he's seen it all. Also, the cinematography is stunning, and the brilliant screenplay that never euphemizes the horrors going on makes the viewer on edge the whole film with its unpredictability.

On the whole, this is a very good film, and definitely one of the best made about the Iraq war as of yet. Yes, it has some minor flaws and plot devices, but the bigger aspirations of the film are the ones that count.… Expand

6 of 13 users found this helpful67

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9

lukechristianscJan 21, 2015

At eighty-four years old, Director Clint Eastwood still has the gut wrenching soul in himself behind the camera. Eastwood is one of my favorite film makers, Every film that he directed it was so marvelously done and had well good style;At eighty-four years old, Director Clint Eastwood still has the gut wrenching soul in himself behind the camera. Eastwood is one of my favorite film makers, Every film that he directed it was so marvelously done and had well good style; american sniper, starring Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miler the movie is about: Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle's pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend. Back home to his wife and kids after four tours of duty, however, Chris finds that it is the war he can't leave behind; based on the acclaim novel, screenwriter Jason Hall skips the best life moments of Chris Kyle ( like his first kill or when he engaged to his wife). From the writer of the movie that grossed Rotten Tomatoes at five percent " Paranoia" and Spread make a huge improvement in his career as making Cinema History's best American Sniper. Sometimes this movie skips a lot! for example: after Kyle's war happened they didn't tell us when then year was and all of a sudden their children grow FAST in this movie. RING RING RING ! i hear that this movie is gonna be nominated into the oscars, Cooper gets the oscar for best actor and Miller gets the award of best actress! also Clint Eastwood gets an oscar for Best Direction; the action sequences are NOT over ratted and but there entertaining! I am gonna give this movie an A- it has good direction by Eastwood and excellent script by Jason Hall and soulful performance by Bradley Cooper. Grade A-… Expand

6 of 13 users found this helpful67

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8

AxeTJan 9, 2015

As surefooted filmmaking as it gets. This is craft at its peak in all categories. A personal film for Clint in many ways, echoes of his legendary screen past are on view. Bradley should get a nomination.
I generally don't love war movies,As surefooted filmmaking as it gets. This is craft at its peak in all categories. A personal film for Clint in many ways, echoes of his legendary screen past are on view. Bradley should get a nomination.
I generally don't love war movies, only a handful. They are often boring in my opinion, and this drags a bit from some of those same tropes of the genre. A true story said to be accurate, so what can you do? It is a good story if not a really great one.… Expand

6 of 13 users found this helpful67

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8

analogkid280Jan 18, 2015

Excellent job of directing and editing. Texas accents are spot on which is a real rarity in Hollywood these days. I enjoyed all of this movie from beginning to end. The only thing I could find wrong is they overdid Kyle making him lookExcellent job of directing and editing. Texas accents are spot on which is a real rarity in Hollywood these days. I enjoyed all of this movie from beginning to end. The only thing I could find wrong is they overdid Kyle making him look almost superheroish with a arch enemy out there finding him though multiple tours. We the audience did not need that with Kyle's story being interesting enough in itself. I loved the evolution of the vehicles and equipment from his first tour to his last. I found that and many specifics of the war to be so accurate it was spooking me out being a OIF veteran myself.… Expand

8 of 18 users found this helpful810

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5

XerogamerJan 31, 2015

American sniper is an over glorified American propaganda film. The story of Chris Kyle is a good one, but the film is a poor portrayal of his story. Chris Kyle is presented like a God in the movie, but he is just a man with a gift of killingAmerican sniper is an over glorified American propaganda film. The story of Chris Kyle is a good one, but the film is a poor portrayal of his story. Chris Kyle is presented like a God in the movie, but he is just a man with a gift of killing people. The character development was aweful for every other character that isn't Chris Kyle. In the movie Marines were made out to be expendable, with Chris being the God like figure to teach and protect them. This movie is a means to promote war, rather to disuede it.… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

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6

heathermFeb 3, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. While this movie undoubtedly has good, dramatic moments, overall it's a superficial treatment of a complex subject. One comedian on the Nightly Show described it as "duck hunt but with Iraqis", and that wasn't an unfair assessment. Even in the rare moments that interaction occurs between the American forces and the people they're invading, the Iraqis invariably turn out to be trying to kill the Americans, a simplistic and uninteresting way to portray them, since the Americans are the only good guys. The enemy sniper, who is intended to be the foil and rival to the American Chris Kyle, is nothing more than a cardboard cutout of a cartoonish villain, complete with long eyelashes and a headscarf. Especially since our protagonist never entertained any doubts about the essential goodness of what he was doing in Iraq, it felt like a simplified and one-sided story about the war.… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

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9

TVJerryJan 20, 2015

Bradley Cooper adds 40 pounds of muscle and a Texas twang to remarkably transform himself into Chris Kyle, a Navy SEAL who became a legend, literally, because of his ability as a sniper. The majority of this film takes place during his enemyBradley Cooper adds 40 pounds of muscle and a Texas twang to remarkably transform himself into Chris Kyle, a Navy SEAL who became a legend, literally, because of his ability as a sniper. The majority of this film takes place during his enemy encounters in Iraq, all shot with controlled, precise skill by director Clint Eastwood. This alternates with his struggles to adapt to the civilian world of husband and father, presented by Eastwood with empathy but restrained emotion. Although some scenes go on too long, the film's quiet intensity, the character's determination and Cooper's performance make for a compelling experience.… Expand

11 of 25 users found this helpful1114

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10

WindozeJan 17, 2015

The best Iraq war movie of all time. Hands down an outstanding job by Bradley Cooper and Clint Eastwood. To all these snot-nosed brats whining about not showing the deeper picture of the Iraq war, you're watching the wrong movie. This movieThe best Iraq war movie of all time. Hands down an outstanding job by Bradley Cooper and Clint Eastwood. To all these snot-nosed brats whining about not showing the deeper picture of the Iraq war, you're watching the wrong movie. This movie is meant for the Americans who are still patriotic, if you'd rather attack American values, don't watch this movie....this movie is not about politics.… Expand

11 of 25 users found this helpful1114

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1

Sebe2012Jan 18, 2015

A cold, emotionless , one sided movie that have been seen many times. In fact the other movies are better.what could haven been really brave is to show parallel lives of both the Iraqie sniper and the American sniper . But instead , EastwoodA cold, emotionless , one sided movie that have been seen many times. In fact the other movies are better.what could haven been really brave is to show parallel lives of both the Iraqie sniper and the American sniper . But instead , Eastwood choses the easy and make a film about a hero. Big yawn.… Expand

12 of 28 users found this helpful1216

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9

duckxpertJan 19, 2015

I find it interesting as to how the public rated the movie at the time of the showing. What I saw in a packed theater at the end is applause followed by filing out in virtual silence. You can tell the veterans who were at the movie just byI find it interesting as to how the public rated the movie at the time of the showing. What I saw in a packed theater at the end is applause followed by filing out in virtual silence. You can tell the veterans who were at the movie just by looking at the faces of those exiting. As a veteran myself, I could not but be affected by the long buried feelings that came to the surface during the movie. I would caution those who saw combat action, especially those with PTSD to seriously think before seeing it, and if you do, don't go alone.… Expand

6 of 14 users found this helpful68

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1

GamerMxApr 2, 2015

This movie never should go outside of USA, is a nonsense for the rest of the countries, the arguments, the actions, the characters, bahhh is so silly.

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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7

mikayoyoMar 30, 2015

Look, no matter how much you hate Chris Kyle, the demonization of Muslims, Clint Eastwood, or anyone who likes this movie, that does not make this a bad movie. It's faults are easy to find: it doesn't show both sides of the story, it doesn'tLook, no matter how much you hate Chris Kyle, the demonization of Muslims, Clint Eastwood, or anyone who likes this movie, that does not make this a bad movie. It's faults are easy to find: it doesn't show both sides of the story, it doesn't accurately portray war, and the fake baby. However, its excellent acting and sound design keep it moving. It's a good movie, not great, but it is good. Only watch it if you're not easily offended or angered.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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8

MattBrady99Mar 10, 2015

A film that's been nominated for best picture at the Oscars and also has a lot of controversy behind it, that's a lot to take in for a movie studio.

American Sniper tell the story of Chris Kyle played by Bradley Cooper. Chris was the mostA film that's been nominated for best picture at the Oscars and also has a lot of controversy behind it, that's a lot to take in for a movie studio.

American Sniper tell the story of Chris Kyle played by Bradley Cooper. Chris was 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.

I remember a time where Clint Eastwood use to make pretty damn good movies. Unforgiven, Changeling, Million Dollar Baby, Gran Torino and Mystic River. All these movie right there are one of his best, but for the last couple of years he's been making some bad or really boring movies that forgot about. Until American Sniper came out and at last his back on track of what made him good in the first place, because American Sniper is a great movie.

Bradley Cooper in this movie dose a Oscar worthy performance and...wait a minute, his nominated for one. Now that's what I like to see. Cooper really played Chris Kyle so well that I think this is my favorite performance from him, because he got all the stress, all the hard work to protect his family & country and war itself effecting you from the people you killed, and Bradley Cooper got the character right and showed that he was only human.

The directing from Client Eastwood was nothing but great. With his other films (And I'm talking about the bad ones) his movie always have this slow paste feel to them making it uninteresting, but with this it's always going and it never slows down. I'm not talking about the action that makes the movie more quick past, no I'm talking about the movie characters and it's sense of atmosphere of intense and quick reaction and that got my interested from start till finish, and that's brilliant film making by Client Eastwood.

Now for the controversy of this movie: 2014 was the year for controversy and yet it's pretty pointless to start a controversy for this movie over a american hero who may have do some wrong things, but who hasn't in a war zone. The people who started the controversy is only advertising the movie more, I mean just look at the The Interview and how much people sawed that by all the controversy and almost the start of World War 3. The controversy for this movie is by Chris Kyle actions towards Muslims and how the movie adversest him has a perfect war hero, and that's just ridiculous to get all **** about. Chris Kyle probably did some bad things in the battlefield but he also did some good things that saved many solders lives. To those who's criticizing Chris is only adverting the movie more and everybody is going to watch the movie and you going to get a lot of hate for saying that.

Now for problems: The films editing seem to past some important scenes in the movie and I'm not going to say what scenes I mean if I do then I must spoil some scenes. And that's it for problems.

American Sniper is a excellent war movie that shows how brutal war is and how it can effect on people.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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1

Pelen23Jan 19, 2015

Yet another offensive and embarrassing film from Hollywood . If people think it is a character study , it is a total failure . No characters flesh up apart from Chris Kyle and a pointless sienna miller keeps saying " you must be a human againYet another offensive and embarrassing film from Hollywood . If people think it is a character study , it is a total failure . No characters flesh up apart from Chris Kyle and a pointless sienna miller keeps saying " you must be a human again " .oh ! and that fake baby . And this film has been nominated for best oscar? You gotta be kidding .… Expand

14 of 33 users found this helpful1419

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5

RetroheadJan 16, 2015

I read the book, and was aware of his murder within a few hours the day it happened. I had high hopes from viewing the trailer to the movie. Unfortunately Eastwood went for the "Hollywood" version ala Heartbreak Ridge! So many factual errorsI read the book, and was aware of his murder within a few hours the day it happened. I had high hopes from viewing the trailer to the movie. Unfortunately Eastwood went for the "Hollywood" version ala Heartbreak Ridge! So many factual errors in time, weaponry, and most of all tactics. Did he ignore the real deal SEAL consultants? Or did they fail to consult with any?? This movie was "OK" for those who follow that detail! As with "Lone Survivor" this was a good movie! And brought the story to a much wider audience! But it could have been so much better! And why did Eastwood choose to Wussify Kyle's Brother? Just doesn't make sense really! You die hard weapons and Tactics guy's might want to wait for DVD!… Expand

8 of 19 users found this helpful811

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0

heloheJan 20, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Stupid movie for stupid people. The end was good though. People who are saying that this is a NAZI-propaganda movie for the republicans are not wrong.

How can someone who killed 200+ people be called a legend? Sociopath, if he was not before, certainly he became one.

How Eastwood who calls himself libertarian and who on numerous occasions took a stance against war and against guns, could make such a movie is unexplainable.

I am happy I did not pay anything for seeing it. Would be a waste of money.… Expand

13 of 31 users found this helpful1318

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0

DavidWardenJan 22, 2015

Crappy, horrible, right wing, hunting and war advocate movie. 0/10 would never ever watch again .

12 of 29 users found this helpful1217

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5

ClayMerrittJan 8, 2015

American Sniper -- 2 hours of 'meh'. The movie itself suffered from an identity crisis. Was it trying to be this generations' Full Metal Jacket, a drama film, or a mid-summer action blockbuster? It was annoying. It has more substance to itAmerican Sniper -- 2 hours of 'meh'. The movie itself suffered from an identity crisis. Was it trying to be this generations' Full Metal Jacket, a drama film, or a mid-summer action blockbuster? It was annoying. It has more substance to it than Lone Survivor did, which is what saved it from being a complete mess, in my opinion. I enjoyed some parts, but overall it's one of those films I don't necessarily recommend, but if there's nothing else to see at the theaters, then by all means, watch it. Just not that great.… Expand

9 of 22 users found this helpful913

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4

aGUYtoREMEMBERJan 6, 2015

The Movie was ok, but it is not the like other Clint Eastwood movies. Flags of our fathers and Letters from Iwo jima were beautiful films but this movie is more like the hurt locker. It lacks any real peak is seems to be trying to hard toThe Movie was ok, but it is not the like other Clint Eastwood movies. Flags of our fathers and Letters from Iwo jima were beautiful films but this movie is more like the hurt locker. It lacks any real peak is seems to be trying to hard to make this man feel like a "war god" but it does not develop as well as the other Clint Eastwood films. It is a decent film but not as great a the conservatives are trying to make it out to be… Expand

8 of 20 users found this helpful812

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7

ThegodfathersonDec 30, 2014

The user reviews for this movie were mediocre, which is wrong because its not a bad movie. American Sniper is Clint Eastwood's take on Chris Kyle's life, and it comes out with good and bad results. First of all, this is Bradley Cooper's bestThe user reviews for this movie were mediocre, which is wrong because its not a bad movie. American Sniper is Clint Eastwood's take on Chris Kyle's life, and it comes out with good and bad results. First of all, this is Bradley Cooper's best performance in years, even better than Playbook and Hustle. Director Clint Eastwood emphasizes very much on the family aspect of Kyle's life. That was a bum because long scenes in the movie just focus on Taya- Kyle's wife played excellently by Sienna Miller. Even though its a touch too long, the battle sequences are some of the best I have seen, the amount of tension is unbelievable and Eastwood nails that. The film becomes ultimately a drama thats too much on the family side than on the war aspect that viewers want to see, thats not a bad thing but they could be shorter. This is a good film, despite some flaws its not only watchable, but its a reminder of American history. American Sniper gets a 7/10 from me.… Expand

6 of 15 users found this helpful69

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9

LynJan 24, 2015

"American Sniper" is a straightforward war picture, very well done. It's not pro-war by any stretch, but you can expect some war movie cliches. Bradley Cooper deserves his place on the best actor roster alongside the likes of Benedict"American Sniper" is a straightforward war picture, very well done. It's not pro-war by any stretch, but you can expect some war movie cliches. Bradley Cooper deserves his place on the best actor roster alongside the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch. (His is about the only memorable performance, honestly.) I think the strength of the film comes from knowing Chris Kyle was a real person -- with real faults, real aspirations, real achievements, real problems, a real family. He had to work hard to get his sh!t together after his harrowing experiences, and he channeled that strength into helping other veterans. He, and the movie, are worthy of respect.… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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10

IO_ErrorJan 31, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This NOT a political movie but just trying to give people a glimpse at what Chrus Kyle and his family had to go through. Liberals will say we shouldn't have gone to Iraq Blah blah etc. put that aside and think about what decisions Chris Kyle had to make about killing women and children. what mother would give a child a grenade to throw at Americans. What kinda of person would drill holes in a defenseless child's hand and shoot a defenseless father, What child would pick a a RPG to shoot at Americans? There are real evil people in this world and Chris Kyle had to make a decision to save American lives or not. Many say a real sniper wouldn't have done this or that out in the field. I say it's still a movie and I believe Mr. Eastwood was trying to convey the emotions and the situations of how Chris Kyle felt probably not to a T as Hollywood still take liberties in interpreting the book. We had snipers in the revolutionary war to take out the British no one complains.. We had snipers in WW to kill Nazis ( liberal would call them disgruntled Germans) no one complains. Chris Kyle kept going back more to save American lives that was more his mind set than anything political.
I felt this movie made me feel Chris Kyle anguish and torment and how Taya felt when he came home zombie like.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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9

DellettMar 20, 2015

The movie was excellent, but it should have been longer . So 9 instead of 10.

I loved the balance between telling a very patriotic, moving story of a hero who wasn't perfect, whose family life was far from perfect, in a war that was veryThe movie was excellent, but it should have been longer . So 9 instead of 10.

I loved the balance between telling a very patriotic, moving story of a hero who wasn't perfect, whose family life was far from perfect, in a war that was very far from perfect.

Chris left no man behind. In doing so, he left his wife and children behind and they also paid a terrible price for our freedom. But if I had been Chris, I don't know that I could or would have done anything different. What choice was there? Let soldiers die that you know you can save, or leave your wife and children in difficult suffering? He went as far as he could and then came home to save his family and himself.

Thankfully, they didn't try to justify or criticize the war. They just told us about a premier hero among many others in the background including Taya. As Chris’ wife and mother of their children, Taya was not one wit less the hero herself. Her mortal life may not have been on the line, but her heart and soul were. Taya not only did 4 tours with Chris, she had to deal with the hardships of this wonderful man when he returned while desperately yearning for the emotional support she needed.

Bradly Cooper and Sienna Miller were outstanding in bringing their story home to us.

They didn’t fully develop the whole story, but what they did, they did so very well.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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8

tvnewsguidoJan 18, 2015

An unflinching character study of an American Patriot.

Say what you want about the morality of American involvement in military conflicts - "American Sniper" is still a great movie.

5 of 13 users found this helpful58

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5

gunnyartJan 15, 2015

Please don't assume by the mediocre score that I am in anyway less than thrilled that they made this movie. In fact the most likely explanation for my low score was the incredibly high expectations I had for it and my anxious anticipation toPlease don't assume by the mediocre score that I am in anyway less than thrilled that they made this movie. In fact the most likely explanation for my low score was the incredibly high expectations I had for it and my anxious anticipation to be rewarded with a visual representation of the book that I loved so much.
For starters I am navy combat veteran though I never came under enemy fire, much less experienced anything remotely reminiscent of what CK underwent. I have read the book a couple times and the thing that gets me about the book is how much (in spite of our very different experiences) I related to his experience and to him personally. I didn't get that with the movie. The impossible task of adapting an autobiography for film is the inability to capture the voice in the authors head. I also was distracted by Bradley Cooper as CK which isn't any fault of Mr. Cooper's other than being a familiar face. Time constraints obviously meant that large swaths of the story had to be cut, but I would have preferred tackling fewer accounts but developing them completely. Chris Kyle was far to complex a man to have his life told in cliff note form. I also was distracted by some Hollywood bad habits as pertains to gun play but nobody but a nerd like me cares about that stuff.
I was so invested in this being good that I had nowhere to go but down.
My favorite part of the film was the news footage at the very end. That could have easily been a mini documentary in it's own right I would have stayed an extra hour to watch.
I guess to sum up I anticipated getting emotional during the film but it wasn't until the credits that I shed a tear.… Expand