I was initially attracted to this film by its two male stars, but I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I don't want to spoil the experience by giving away the details, but I will advise any viewer to pay attention. This IS a movie to watch!
I did not expect the plot turns that evolved during the film. Getting a surprise like that isn't always the best thing, but it worked well for this film.
American Sniper is an incredible film! I got an immediate feeling with the man and his views on his duty to America. We are blessed, as a country, by men and women who sign on to his creed. The film also portrayed the strains that were placed on his wife and family. The tragic end that became his fate was handled deftly. The change in America from WWII to the nasty wars of today was an underlying theme. Our soldiers too often are unknown to us unless we know them personally. The impact upon their families and friends is unchanged, but most of us know nothing beyond the daily news. I can distantly recall rationing during the waning days of WWII. There were times when my mom might have the "right" to buy flour, sugar, etc., but there was none on the shelf in the market. She had to make do. That has not been our experience at any time since.
As the movie began, I was not expecting a film-musical. My ignorance, noted. The cast was exceptional and mostly did a good job, but you anticipate my negatives. The overall performance did not sustain itself. Johnny Carson was famous for his quote, "If you buy the premise, you buy the bit." Despite all the talent and the excellence of the filmography, it didn't make the cut.
I have mixed emotions on this film. I expect it will become one of those "Great Films" in the realms of Citizen Kane, Network, Easy Rider, etc. It will be studied forever and debated endlessly. Everything about it is over the top, but somehow, as I consider the whole of it, I did not really enjoy it that much. It was painful to watch. That may be its strength, but it is also its weakness. Movies have a role to play in our culture. They may simply entertain us, their principle function. They may give us a vision of the future, hope, justification, etc. as we expect. When they venture into the realm of creative, acting, angst; they take us to a place where no one is comfortable! So, the boundaries have been stretched, and that's a good thing; but the entertainment value is hurting. This is "homage" to the art of creativity, without giving us much help where understanding it is concerned.
I saw some TV promos for this and so I bought it. Certainly, the star power played a part, but I do enjoy great, over the top productions and seek them out. This IS one of those. I cannot imagine a viewer who will not enjoy this film.
A somewhat quirky movie that will keep you guessing right up to the closing scene. Great acting by the two headline stars as well as the other players. It almost put me off, but there was something haunting about it. As you begin to comprehend the grim yet believable post apocalyptic world being offered, you will wonder what you might do or encounter at such a time and place.