‘American Sniper’ Has a Record-Breaking Opening

American Sniper Sets a Box Office Record
BRADLEY COOPER as Chris Kyle in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ drama ‘American Sniper.’ (Photo © 2014 Warner Bros Entertainment)

American Sniper, based on the true story of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, set a new record for the biggest grossing film opening in limited release (10 or fewer theaters). Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Bradley Cooper in a award-worthy performance as Kyle, American Sniper took in $1.04 million over its first five days in limited release, averaging $260,000 per theater.

“Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper have created a remarkable portrayal of a truly remarkable man,” said Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures. “We are proud that American Sniper is already resonating so strongly with critics and audiences as we begin our roll out of the film, and we look forward to sharing this story with the rest of the country in the New Year.”

American Sniper is based on the book by Chris Kyle (with Scott McEwen and Jim DeFelice) and was adapted for the screen by Jason Hall. In addition to Cooper, the cast includes Sienna Miller, Luke Grimes, Jake McDorman, Cory Hardrict, Kevin Lacz, Navid Negahban, and Keir O’Donnell.

The Plot:

Navy SEAL Chris Kyle is sent to Iraq with only one mission: to protect his brothers-in-arms. His pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and, as stories of his courageous exploits spread, he earns the nickname “Legend.” However, his reputation is also growing behind enemy lines, putting a price on his head and making him a prime target of insurgents. He is also facing a different kind of battle on the home front: striving to be a good husband and father from halfway around the world. Despite the danger, as well as the toll on his family at home, Chris serves through four harrowing tours of duty in Iraq, personifying the spirit of the SEAL creed to “leave no one behind.” But upon returning to his wife, Taya (Miller), and kids, Chris finds that it is the war he can’t leave behind.


-By Rebecca Murray

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