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Shooter

Shooter (2007)

Mar 22, 2007 2h 4m Drama Action Thriller

A top Marine sniper, Bob Lee Swagger, leaves the military after a mission goes horribly awry and disappears, living in seclusion. He is coaxed back into service after a high-profile government official convinces him to help thwart a plot to kill the President of the United States. Ultimately double-crossed and framed for the attempt, Swagger becomes the target of a nationwide manhunt. He goes on the run to track the real killer and find out who exactly set him up, and why, eventually seeking revenge against some of the most powerful and corrupt leaders in the free world.

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Directed by Antoine Fuqua

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Antoine Fuqua
Producer
  • Lorenzo di Bonaventura
  • Ric Kidney

Reviews

DRDMovieMusings
7/10

Ah, so that's what happened. Kinda.

"I'm a patsy!"

The last words of an accused presidential assassin, himself killed - on live TV no less. Ah, the 60s, when America appeared at once to be both starting to "get it" and also coming apart at the seams.

Lee Harvey Oswald was introduced to the world as a lone sharp shooter who felled a president. But, very early in the aftermath, there were doubts and details that, in total, just didn't seem to add up. Accordingly, theories proliferated questioning the veracity of that official position in light of evidence and the interpretations thereof. If the official story is not what happened, is there a plausible scenario that would more reasonably account for all those details, moving us closer to the truth of what may otherwise have actually happened?

And thus, we have Shooter.

No, it is no attempt to flesh out, to the last inch, everything that is or may have been about Oswald. It's a story that has parallels - and even a non-casual mention of/reference to the Kennedy assassination to help us watching at home realize what we were actually watching - a plausible scenario.

Apr 2, 2017

JPV852
8/10

All around solid action-thriller with Mark Wahlberg in his element. Luis Guzman served as a fun sidekick and Kate Mara is a stunner. Shame this didn't do better at the box office, would've liked to have a sequel instead of that USA Network TV show... **3.75/5**

Jul 24, 2020

RickN

Excellent movie with major stars like Mark Wahlberg and Danny Glover. An expert marksman living in exile, is coaxed back into action after learning of a plot to kill the president. Now on the run after being double crossed by a shadow government operation. Have watched multiple times!

Nov 23, 2024

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Shooter examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Antoine Fuqua brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Shooter took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $61.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 161 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 476 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2007, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Shooter shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike When the Bullet Hits the Bone, which focuses more on action than character development, Shooter offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Hustler and The Man Who Fell to Earth explore similar territory, Shooter stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 22, 2007
  • Runtime: 2h 4m
  • Budget: $61,000,000
  • Revenue: $95,700,000

Where to Watch

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