Outstanding Movie

Rating: 10/10 (26 May 2015)

Another outstanding accomplishment by Mr. Eastwood. There is definitely no candy-coating in this account. People either like Clint Eastwood, or they do not – I happen to be one of his fans. I also think Bradley Cooper did a very fine job portraying Navy SEAL, Chief Kyle. (Subliminal suggestion – A-Team II) Hell the entire cast did an awesome job. All of these people were superb. Oh, and by the way – why didn't that guy, Kevin Lacz, get a nomination? Some of the finest acting I have ever witnessed – just saying.
I like how Clint took a real script and a real story and put it up on the big screen. Granted, time constraints always limit what is and is not displayed - I think (or hope) most people know that. I also understand many will not get it, and I doubt they ever will. The dead giveaways are the immediate references or comparisons to other movies; or ideologues blaming the 'other side'; or those blindly blaming brave individuals and conveniently omitting their politicians, etc. it's pretty easy to tell. This man did his job (like many who are lost in forgotten lands, far-far away.) He was a Navy SEAL; very professional and I assume the missions caught up to him. I am not a combat related PTSD professional, but what these veterans suffer through has to be horrible.
There is also a question of the whether this guy should be referred to as a 'Hero.' Some very, very, very, very fat people have posed this question (they seem to think it is a very easy job – like eating a jelly donut - maybe?) Fair enough. You are a Marine patrolling very hostile territory. You are given a choices for your heroes. You have a pretend superhero who can leap tall buildings, is faster than bullets and is really powerful; or you have a pretend one with a cowl, a fancy car and utility belt; or you have a real person who happens to be very dependable and a very effective sniper...or...maybe that donut will protect you.
You don't have to rack your brains thinking about the answer – ask a Marine (or any military personnel from any country). If you are surprised at all by the answer – how in the hell did you manage to read this far into my review?
(Sarcasm) I am somewhat offended at the Academy Award Committee for rudely considering this masterpiece for anything. Apparently, 'American Sniper's' emotional depth is too deep, enabling it to effortlessly navigate beneath the committee's hubris-fed puerility, which has been repositioning superficiality over quality for quite some time. This movie probably should not have won 'Best Picture' - fine, but some pointless bird-movie.
The story of Chief Kyle is pretty amazing. All these men and women defending our country are pretty amazing people. As a 20 year vet myself, I am glad that this story is out there, and I thank those who put it together. I know it is not for everyone, but I do know I got more out of the movie than some and less than others. For me, another excellent job Mr. Eastwood - thanks.