Under 500 (Almost) - American Sniper

This film follows the story of one of the USA's most respected soldiers in their history, focusing on aspects of his family and work life as he leaves them to fight in the Iraqi war. A dedicated and proud member of the NAVY seals, Chris Kyle played by Bradley Cooper, in his first tour of Iraq earns himself 'Legend' status by becoming the most deadly sniper out there. Over all four tours he accumulated 160 confirmed kills. If you haven't heard of the outcome to Chris' story, he definitely deserved to be immortalised on screen and celebrated as great soldier.

Clint Eastwood's decision to make this film was one of his best decisions yet! The film is full of action and story, instead of glamorising combat and going all out military it focuses on Chris' family life and how the services of war can effect other commitments. Although earning the title 'Legend' from his colleagues who respect and idolise him, his wife Taya, played by Sienna miller, feels distant from him and as quoted "I feel like I'm creating memories by myself" she says holding their baby son. Clint Eastwood shows Chris' frustration as he tries to find balance for the sake of his Country and family.

Bradley Cooper (if that's even him) is totally different to other parts he has played, he usually has a

bit of class to his look and quite a lanky build. In this he has bulked up and become a tough Texan soldier, the accent takes a little while to get going but is barely noticed as Bradley establishes the characteristics of Chris. A protector and a romancer, he lives the first few scenes standing up for what he thinks is right and winning the heart of Taya. Little did he know it would be so difficult to commit to two things at once, being deployed almost immediately after his wedding. A protector as his father lectures him and his brother when they were children about protecting their own, and Chris finishing a fight for his brother. Almost foreshadowing the well renowned moment of his career when he makes a 2,100 yard sniper shot.

The first 20 minutes are slightly rushed but you pick out the key points you need to know for the rest of the film, he's a protector, he joins the SEALS, he gets married, he gets deployed, that's all you need to know. Their is a certain sense of realism about it by not glamorising any moments bringing in the atmosphere of contemporary war time and even alienating the audience from peaceful life when Chris returns from tours. It puts you in his place and you join him as he finds a healthy balance.

A story I didn't know much of before I watched this film, but after reading up on Chris' story, I have a lot more respect for this man and any man or woman who fights to protect their country. This was a story that had to be told, a story of a man who fought and died for his friends and family.