Success of American Sniper rekindles culture war over Iraq
The box office smash American Sniper is opening a new front in the culture wars by reigniting debate over the Iraq War.
Clint Eastwoods film, which garnered six Oscar nominations, has quickly turned into the most politically charged movie of the year as pundits and opinion-makers weigh in on its portrayal of Chris Kyle, the Navy SEAL credited with the most kills in U.S. history, as well as the war he fought in.
To supporters of the film, including GOP figures like Sarah Palin, the controversy illustrates a shameful lack of support for the military and the Iraq War among Hollywood leftists.
The film is striking a chord at a fragile time, just weeks after terrorist attacks in Paris and a slew of new executions by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria raised questions about the threat from radical Islam.
And the controversy is promising to spill over into the wider political debate not to mention the looming Oscar fight by renewing old rifts between left and right, coasts and heartland.
Actor Seth Rogen made waves when he said American Sniper reminded him of a Nazi propaganda film depicted in the 2009 World War II film Inglourious Basterds. He walked back the comments after they prompted a backlash from country music star Craig Morgan, actor Dean Cain and others.
Moores tweet that snipers arent heroes brought Republican leaders into the fray, including former Speaker Newt Gingrich (Ga.) and several lawmakers who called Moore a coward.
The petulant, knee-jerk backlash vs American Sniper is driven by fear of facing the idea that maybe our soldiers fought for a just cause, tweeted Dan McLaughlin, a contributor at RedState.
The controversy over what the film stands for appears to be growing as attention rises from publications and major TV networks, all of which are carrying stories about celebrities debate over American Sniper. There is precedent to suggest that President Obama could eventually face questions about the film.
Aspects of the movie seem tailored to appeal to conservatives.
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Success of American Sniper rekindles culture war over Iraq