Sniper: Assassin’s End (2020): A Tense Modern Thriller with Classic Sniper Precision
"Sniper: Assassin’s End" (2020) continues the long-running action franchise with a fresh dose of suspense, betrayal, and sniper warfare. Directed by Kaare Andrews, this installment centers on the veteran sniper Thomas Beckett (played once again by Tom Berenger) and his son Brandon Beckett (Chad Michael Collins), who are both targeted in a deadly conspiracy that pushes them to the edge.
The story kicks off when Brandon, a top Marine sniper, is framed for the assassination of a foreign dignitary on U.S. soil. With government agents, the FBI, and a mysterious Yakuza-trained assassin all pursuing him, Brandon must go underground. To survive and clear his name, he turns to the one man who truly understands this world — his estranged father, Thomas.
This father-son dynamic forms the emotional core of the movie. While the plot is driven by action and intrigue, it’s also a personal journey for Brandon, who must confront both the past and his identity as a soldier and son. Tom Berenger’s return adds a nostalgic weight, bringing back the grit and wisdom of the original sniper legacy.
Visually, the film doesn’t rely on large-scale set pieces. Instead, it delivers sharp, well-paced sequences filled with tension and strategy. The sniping scenes are detailed and grounded, focusing on patience, calculation, and environment — hallmarks of the franchise. The action feels more tactical than explosive, staying true to the “sniper” theme rather than turning into a generic shoot-’em-up.
While the plot may follow some familiar beats, it manages to stay engaging through tight pacing and focused direction. The inclusion of the silent assassin Lady Death (Sayaka Akimoto) adds a sleek, stealthy edge, making for a few memorable confrontations.
"Sniper: Assassin’s End" is not a reinvention of the franchise, but a respectful continuation. It offers solid action, a few character-driven surprises, and the kind of sniper-centric suspense that fans of the series expect. It’s a modern chapter in a long-running saga that proves the Beckett legacy still has its aim locked in.
