Clint Eastwood's latest blockbuster based on the life of a prolific US Navy SEAL sniper continued to dominate the box office over the weekend.
According to FOX News, American Sniper garnered a total of US$64.4 million last weekend. The film surged ahead of other films, including Johnny Depp's "Mortdecai."
FOX News referred to American Sniper's performance in the box office as the "true stunner," and added that the outcome of the movie in terms of earnings "shrugged off the ongoing debate" as to whether the story of US Navy SEAL Chris Kyle would attract enough attention to earn a significant amount on the box office.
The film's earnings are now at US$200 million after earning an impressive US$90.2 million on its opening weekend as reported by Christian Today. Forbes hailed the movie's performance, noting that before "American Sniper," only James Cameron's "Avatar" and the animated movie "The Incredibles" were able to earn over $70 million on the opening weekend alone.
American Sniper is based on the autobiography of Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle, who earned the nickname "The Legend" for reportedly killing 160 enemies with his sniper rifle during missions in Iraq. Kyle was legendary amongst the US soldiers who served in Iraq because of his talent for deadly precision.
The NAVY Seal returned home after serving in the Middle East and briefly went through a period of difficulties in adjusting to normal life. However, he recovered and worked to help other veterans adjust to civilian life. Tragically, Kyle's life was ended at the hands of a fellow veteran.
Although the movie was hailed for its performance, the Christian Post reported that it was also criticised for not giving focus to Kyle's faith in God even though his autobiography laid out his three priorities as "God, country and family."
