Sniper: Ultimate Kill (2017), directed by Claudio Fäh, is the fifth installment in the Sniper film series, which stars Chad Michael Collins as the sharpshooter Brandon Beckett and introduces Tom Berenger reprising his role as legendary sniper Thomas Beckett. This action-packed film blends military strategy, intense sniper action, and themes of loyalty and sacrifice, appealing to fans of the action genre. While it follows a familiar formula for sniper thrillers, it offers enough excitement and drama to keep audiences engaged.

Plot Summary

The film begins with a tense and action-packed sequence in Colombia, where a notorious drug lord named Gabriel (known as “El Diablo”) is targeted by a specialized sniper team led by Brandon Beckett. During the operation, a skilled sniper known as “The Angel of Death” intervenes, leading to disastrous consequences for the team and leaving Brandon in a precarious situation.

In the wake of the failed mission, Brandon is called back to the U.S. and finds himself facing scrutiny for the events that unfolded. Undeterred, he seeks to bring El Diablo to justice. The mission escalates when he learns that El Diablo is involved in a larger international drug trafficking operation that is being protected by corrupt officials.

To stop El Diablo, Brandon reunites with his mentor, Thomas Beckett, and together, they devise a plan to take down the drug lord and uncover the identity of the mysterious sniper, The Angel of Death, who continues to pose a threat to their mission. The film unfolds with intense sniper battles, strategic planning, and personal stakes, culminating in a showdown that tests the skills and determination of both Brandon and Thomas.

Themes

1. Loyalty and Mentorship: The relationship between Brandon and Thomas Beckett highlights themes of loyalty and mentorship. Thomas serves as a father figure and guide for Brandon, sharing his wisdom and experience as a sniper. Their bond emphasizes the importance of trust and loyalty, particularly in high-stakes situations.
2. Courage and Sacrifice: The film explores the idea of courage in the face of danger and the sacrifices that soldiers make for their missions and comrades. Both Brandon and Thomas are willing to put themselves at risk to protect others and achieve their goals, illustrating the bravery required in military operations.
3. Justice and Retribution: The plot centers around the pursuit of justice against drug trafficking and organized crime. Brandon’s determination to take down El Diablo reflects a desire for retribution and the moral imperative to confront evil in the world. The film raises questions about the lengths one must go to achieve justice.
4. The Nature of Warfare: As a sniper film, Sniper: Ultimate Kill delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of warfare. The film portrays the complexities of being a sniper, including the burden of taking lives and the ethical dilemmas that come with such responsibilities.
5. Good vs. Evil: The battle between Brandon and Thomas versus El Diablo and his associates embodies the classic theme of good versus evil. The characters represent the fight against corruption and criminality, while the antagonists are depicted as ruthless and immoral.

Character Development

• Brandon Beckett (Chad Michael Collins): Brandon is portrayed as a skilled sniper who is still learning the ropes of the trade. Throughout the film, he grows from a young, somewhat inexperienced marksman into a more seasoned operator, showcasing his determination and strategic thinking. His journey is also about finding his own identity as a sniper, distinct from the legacy of Thomas Beckett.
• Thomas Beckett (Tom Berenger): Tom Berenger reprises his iconic role as Thomas Beckett, a seasoned sniper who serves as a mentor to Brandon. Berenger brings depth and gravitas to the character, portraying a man with a wealth of experience and a strong moral compass. His presence adds weight to the film, as he guides Brandon through the challenges they face.
• Gabriel “El Diablo” (Diego Tinoco): The film’s antagonist, El Diablo, is a ruthless drug lord who poses a significant threat to the protagonists. His character is portrayed as cunning and dangerous, representing the dark side of the drug trade. While not deeply developed, El Diablo serves as an effective foil to Brandon and Thomas.

Direction and Tone

Claudio Fäh’s direction maintains a fast-paced and action-oriented tone throughout the film. The cinematography captures the intensity of the sniper action, with dramatic shots of the Colombian landscape and close-up views of the sniping sequences. The film balances moments of tension and action with character-driven scenes, allowing for both excitement and emotional depth.

The tone is consistent with previous entries in the Sniper series, focusing on military themes while also incorporating personal stakes for the characters. The blend of action and drama creates an engaging viewing experience, appealing to fans of the genre.

Conclusion

Sniper: Ultimate Kill is a solid entry in the Sniper franchise that combines action, strategy, and themes of loyalty and sacrifice. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, the film delivers enough thrills and emotional moments to satisfy fans of military dramas and action films. With strong performances from Chad Michael Collins and Tom Berenger, as well as engaging action sequences, Sniper: Ultimate Kill serves as an entertaining continuation of the sniper saga, exploring the complexities of warfare and the enduring bonds of mentorship and loyalty.