AMERICAN SNIPER was so moving this afternoon that audience members were totally silent as they exited the theater. Only the occasional sound of sniffling broke the silence. I knew the basics of this true story, brought to life by actor Bradley Cooper and 84-year-old director Clint Eastwood; however, I had no idea that the film would be so emotionally draining, yet inspirational. The story which played out on the screen is not one which preaches the glory of war in general or the Iraq War in particular. Rather, it depicts the horrors endured by our servicemen and women as they fulfill their duties and the difficulties they face as they attempt to readjust to civilian life. Chris Kyle, who holds the record for the most certified kills by an American sniper, was brave, loyal, and fearless, yet humble, as he served four tours of duty in Iraq. His duty as he saw it was protecting his fellow Americans, not scoring as many kills as possible. The film has garnered six Academy Award nominations and has sold out theaters across the country. It has made an indelible impression on me and has increased my already enormous respect for those who put themselves in harms way daily to protect and defend America and Americans. RIP Chris Kyle.
Posted on: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 02:07:47 +0000