Amazing portrayal of a soldier !

Rating: 9/10 (8 June 2015)

The controversial and highly acclaimed movie from director Clint Eastwood; 'American Sniper' is a compelling story that is brilliantly told. Bradley Cooper gives an epic performance as Chris Kyle, the Navy Seal who was an expert marksman dubbed 'legend' by his peers. He killed over one hundred and fifty people while defending his fellow soldiers. This fact in itself should not be celebrated as killing in any field, should never become revered however it is Kyle's patriotism and passion which make him a likable character. The film never tries to make a political statement or give the audience any arguments of whether war is right or wrong, however it focuses on the casualties of combat and how soldiers return from a war zone and can never be the same again. The film reminded me of Oliver stone's masterpiece; 'Born on the fourth of July', but wasn't quite as great as that. However this film remains compelling viewing made in Eastwood style of being uncompromising and honest, whatever your view of the war in Iraq and the US role in the middle east, put it aside and just watch this film and especially Bradley Cooper delivering a classic performance. The one thing this film lacked perhaps was the domestic life of Chris Kyle, it seemed the action in Iraq took precedence over Kyle's turmoil at home. However the film still left me strangely admiring a man who may have been a serial killer for some and a war hero for others. Don't worry about that, just enjoy a great film! @zulfmanauthor