Goosebumps: Here’s a first look at Clint Eastwood’s ‘American Sniper’ (video)

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October 2, 2014

The Clint Eastwood-directed American Sniper is set to hit theaters late this year, and if the film’s first trailer is any indication, it’s going to be intense. (see trailer above)

The movie will focus on the life of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, commonly referred to as “the most lethal sniper in American military history” with 160 confirmed kills and 255 claimed kills. So legendary were his exploits on the battlefields of Iraq that insurgents dubbed him the “Devil of Ramadi.” His longest confirmed kill was from an incredible 2,100 yards — roughly 1.2 miles. He was shot twice and involved in six IED attacks during his four tours in Iraq. For his service and valor he received five Bronze Stars, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

Upon returning to his home state of Texas, Kyle took an active role in helping fellow veterans — especially those with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — get re-acclimated to life at home. But in February of last year, Kyle and a friend of his named Chad Littlefield were gunned down at a shooting range by 25-year-old Marine veteran Eddie Ray Routh, while they were trying to help smooth his transition back into civilian life.

Kyle is portrayed in the film by Hollywood A-lister Bradley Cooper.

American Sniper is one of the most highly anticipated movies of the year and is already getting some Oscar buzz.

And as if the anticipation weren’t enough already, there’s also an Alabama connection to the movie as well.

Kyle’s close personal friend and fellow SEAL Team 3 sniper Kevin “Dauber” Lacz (pronounced “lace”) now works for Birmingham-based defense contractor Xtreme Concepts, who served as technical advisors on the film, showing the actors how it’s done in real life. On top of that, Lacz has on-screen role playing himself.

Check out the trailer above, and get more information on the film and Lacz at the links below:

1. The little-known Alabama connection to Clint Eastwood’s upcoming ‘American Sniper’ film
2. Former Navy SEAL working for Alabama defense contractor now in Hollywood limelight
3. SEAL to star in ‘American Sniper’ movie hits the shooting range with Yellowhammer