This film takes you inside the life of American soldiers and helps explain the mindset of valor and patriotism. Bradley Cooper portrays real-life sniper Chris Kyle, a Texan who found his purpose in protecting fellow servicemen. But the film at times is trite and disjointed. The movie broaches, but never delves into, too many ‘issues’: a sense of inferiority by Chris’ brother, Chris’ reaction to a cheating girlfriend, his PTSD and its resolution, neither of which is explained. And director Clint Eastwood uses silly devices to move the action forward, like signaling Chris’ PTSD is cured when he sees a stallion running free at his ranch; we need more to go on. Where the movie shines is in its battle scenes, which get us in touch with the horrors troops face and where Cooper aptly conveys the valor, skill, determination and gravity of being a sniper.
Should You See It? Yes, it is a tribute to those who serve.
Viewed at St. Louis Cinemas Galleria 6