Admirable action tale

Rating: 8/10 (2 April 2016)

'American Sniper' is a worthy watch and makes for some absorbing and, at times, uncomfortable viewing. The title of the movie for me suggested an almost cheesy and boastful American take on a man that became a legendary character during his time serving as a navy seal. However a poignant and heart felt performance from Bradley Cooper in this well directed portrayal gives serious weight to this legendary, and ultimately tragic tale. Bradley Cooper shows a man living in each of his different worlds, and caught between the two. He shows the delicacy of human nature as he struggles to adjust between a world of safety and comfort and the brutal, dangerous world of combat war. He shows the appreciation, yet embarrassment of the celebrity status afforded to him by his heroics. Ultimately - he portrays the man behind the myth and legend. As well as his inspired performance Sienna Miller is also on top form as his suffering wife. The overall quality of the cinematography and war scenes is extremely impressive and realistic. I didn't really know anything about Chris Kyle before watching this - therefore the last sequence of the film was extremely shocking and emotional to comprehend. Overall this is a particularly thoughtful and admirable biopic.