Clint Eastwood's 2014 biographical war drama American Sniper, starring Bradley Cooper, is now available to stream on Netflix. The film, which tells the true story of Chris Kyle, has been hailed by some viewers as one of the best military movies ever made.
A Record-Breaking Box Office Hit
The film chronicles Kyle's journey from a Texas ranch hand and rodeo cowboy to a US Navy SEAL sniper, documenting his 255 kills across four tours of the Iraq War. It also explores the strain his service placed on his marriage to wife Taya, played by Sienna Miller.
Released on Christmas Day 2014, American Sniper went on to earn over $547 million worldwide, making it Eastwood's highest-grossing film as director and the 13th highest-grossing film of that year.
Award Recognition and Audience Praise
The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actor for Cooper, and won Best Sound Editing. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 71% score, with one reviewer calling it "one of the best military movies ever made based on the legendary sniper Chris Kyle."
Another viewer wrote: "Extremely tense. Give me anxiety to watch. Very well acted directed amazing true story. Have a glass of whiskey while you watch it for your nerves." Cooper's performance has particularly resonated, with one fan simply stating: "Cooper should have won the Oscar."
Mixed Reactions and Lasting Impact
While the film has its detractors, sparking debate over its depiction of Kyle and the Iraq War, many reviews praise its realism and humanising approach. One fan noted it's "a movie that humanizes our soldiers and the struggles they face." Another reflected on its emotional weight: "Its a great movie, sad, gnarly and very realistic. Rest in peace, Chris Kyle."
American Sniper is currently available to stream on Netflix.
