'American Sniper' A Gripping, Tense Drama

*** This is my review for American Sniper that I wrote for the Examiner when the film was showing at the Dietrich in January 2015***

Chris Kyle was a United States Navy SEAL and proclaimed most lethal sniper in United States military history. With over 200 kills rumored, 160 of them have actually been confirmed. Kyle was honorably discharged from the Navy and later wrote a best-selling autobiography. Now, award-winning filmmaker Clint Eastwood adapts the autobiography to the big screen and is surely not to be missed.

In the Warner Brothers presentation of "American Sniper," before enlisting in the Navy, Chris Kyle briefly worked as a rodeo cowboy. Once he sees the TV coverage of the 1998 US Embassy bombing attacks, he immediately enlists.

With serving four tours of duty overseas, Chris Kyle begins to realize that even when he is home, he cannot leave war behind.

"American Sniper" is a gripping, tense drama that is not be missed. Throughout the feature film, there are many emotional moments that definitely can really make the viewing audience tear up a little. "American Sniper" also features a powerful performance from lead actor Bradley Cooper, who has also been nominated for an Academy Award for his performance as Chris Kyle. The action sequences in the film are also quite intense and may be a little hard to watch at times. With all the films that Clint Eastwood has directed in his lengthy career, "Sniper" could very well be on the list of the best films he has directed.

During a nearly sold-out screening that I attended, the audience really did get into the film and enjoyed themselves. Also, make sure to stay during the credits where you can see footage of Chris Kyle's memorial. Chris Kyle was tragically shot and killed February 2, 2003 by a veteran that had PTSD whom Kyle was trying to help.

Bradley Cooper portrays the "legend" Chris Kyle. Cooper has recently appeared in "American Hustle, "Silver Linings Playbook, "The Hangover Part III" and performed voice work in the latest Marvel smash hit "Guardians of the Galaxy."

Other cast members include: Kyle Gallner (Beautiful Creatures) as Goat-Winston, Keir O'Donnell (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes) as Jeff Kyle, Sienna Miller (Foxcatcher) as Taya, Luke Grimes (Taken 2; the upcoming Fifty Shades of Grey)as Marc Lee, Cory Hardrict (Warm Bodies; Battle Los Angeles) as 'D', Sam Jaeger (Inherent Vice) as Navy SEAL Lt.Martin and Sammy Sheik (Lone Survivor) as Mustafa. "AmericanSniper" is produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who has also recently directed "Jersey Boys," "J.Edgar" and "Hereafter."

In May 2012, Warner Brothers acquired the film rights to the book "American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in US Military History." Directors David O. Russell and Steven Spielberg at one point had intentions on directing the feature. But, both directors ended up backing out due to unknown reasons. Chris Kyle's widow, Taya Renae Kyle, was also heavily involved with the making of the film.

Just recently, "American Sniper" has been nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor. The film has also been nominated for several other awards as well.

Ever since "American Sniper" began its limited release on Christmas Day, critics have been praising the film. From various screenings across the country, very positive word-of-mouth has spread. As of January 16, the film has earned an estimated $93.6 million, which really exceeded studio expectations.

"American Sniper" is rated R for strong and disturbing war violence, and language throughout including some sexual references and has a running time of 132 minutes.