As one might expect for a movie about one of the best snipers in U.S. history, “American Sniper” is on target for being one of the best war films of all time.

Considering that the Warner Bros. film (rated R, running time 133 minutes) is now the top grossing war film ever, it seems the American public agrees.  The film has made roughly $250m in the box office, enough to top the previous record holder of “Saving Private Ryan,” and for good reason.

Excellent filmmaking and strong performances across the board back up an amazing story of bravery and sacrifice that remains highly relevant in our current political landscape.  Bradley Cooper depicts Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, delivering a performance that very well may be the best of his career and is certainly deserving of his Best Actor Oscar nomination.

Based on Kyle’s autobiography, the film chronicles the tremendous service of a true American hero, paying the necessary respect to his legacy without over-dramatizing the story.  Militarily speaking, the film is very accurate, which helps emphasis the struggles that our country’s elite forces encounter every day, both at home and abroad.

“American Sniper” is a powerful narrative on the toll that multiple deployments can take on a soldier, making it a film that I believe everyone who considers themselves a patriot should see.  While the film may only focus on one man, his story is that of thousands of troops that have sacrificed themselves for their country since 9/11.

Clint Eastwood directed this, his 37th film, after Steven Spielberg dropped the role due to budget constraints.  Even though “American Sniper” has been out for a couple weeks, theaters are still packed whenever it plays, so head out early if you have yet to see it.