A Worthy Action Movie

Rating: 7/10 (29 June 2007)

SHOOTER
*** 1/2 stars out of 5 (7/10).
"Shooter" is one of the better action movies I have seen in awhile. It uses smarts, while entertaining us with far-out, adrenaline-pumping action.
Bob Lee Swagger (MARK WAHLBERG), a former sniper, is approached by Colonel Isaac Johnson (DANNY GLOVER) who says there is a plot to kill the president. He wants Swagger to look over locations the president is visiting, and determine the best place for a shooter. On the day Swagger thinks the assassination will occur, he scans the area in search of the would-be killer. Instead of the president, an African leader is shot and killed. Of course, Bob has been framed, and he must go on the run to clear his name.
The great thing about "Shooter" is Oscar nominee Wahlberg (The Departed). He is so convincing that he makes you feel as if he's actually experiencing the story on screen. The other great thing would be the action. Bullets, explosions, dirt, and sweat. It's extremely exciting to watch. These scenes are also well-directed and shot. Danny Glover delivers a solid performance as does MICHAEL PENA.
Yes, the movie can be a little too formulaic. It can be predictable and a little cartoonish. However, this movie is more intelligent than your usual cup of action. Mark Wahlberg is great, and the shootouts are a pulsating experience. If I can have this much fun at an action movie, than it's one that works.