Currently, there are two Sicario movies in order: Sicario (2015) and Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018). While a third film has been discussed, it remains unreleased, leaving the established narrative at a duology.
Understanding the Sicario Universe
The Sicario film series, directed by Denis Villeneuve (Sicario) and Stefano Sollima (Day of the Soldado), offers a brutal and unflinching look into the complexities and moral ambiguities of the War on Drugs along the US-Mexico border. The films are known for their stunning cinematography, intense action sequences, and morally grey characters who operate outside the bounds of traditional law enforcement. Exploring the film series requires understanding not only the order of release but also the thematic connections and character arcs that weave through the narratives.
The Correct Order of the Sicario Movies
The release order is also the chronological order in which you should watch the Sicario films to best understand the story and character development:
- Sicario (2015)
- Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
Analyzing the Thematic Differences
While both films share the same core characters and explore the same thematic concerns, they differ in their approach and overall tone. The first Sicario focuses more on Kate Macer’s (Emily Blunt) journey of disillusionment as she confronts the brutal realities of cartel warfare and the morally compromised actions of her superiors. Day of the Soldado, on the other hand, delves deeper into the complexities of Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) and Matt Graver’s (Josh Brolin) characters, exploring their motivations and the human cost of their actions with even greater brutality. The first film relies heavily on suspense and a gradual reveal of the truth, while the second film adopts a more direct and action-oriented approach.
Detailed Synopses
Understanding the synopsis of each film further clarifies the chronological viewing order:
Sicario (2015)
FBI agent Kate Macer is recruited by a shadowy government task force headed by Matt Graver to combat the escalating drug war along the US-Mexico border. Under the guidance of the enigmatic Alejandro Gillick, she finds herself questioning her morals as she witnesses the extreme measures taken to achieve their objectives. The film explores themes of justice, corruption, and the psychological toll of war.
Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
When the US government suspects that cartels are smuggling terrorists across the border, Matt Graver re-teams with Alejandro Gillick to ignite a war between rival cartels. The mission quickly spirals out of control when they are ordered to eliminate a young cartel princess, forcing Alejandro to question his loyalties and protect the innocent. Day of the Soldado examines the consequences of escalating violence and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Sicario Films
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Sicario films to help you further understand the franchise:
Q1: Will there be a Sicario 3?
Rumors and discussions about a third Sicario film have been circulating for years. While a script has reportedly been written, there have been delays due to scheduling conflicts and creative differences. There is no official release date at this time, but cast and crew members have expressed interest in continuing the story. Tentatively titled Sicario: Capos, the potential third film is said to be centered on Alejandro Gillick’s past.
Q2: Do I need to watch Sicario (2015) before Sicario: Day of the Soldado?
Yes, it is highly recommended. While Sicario: Day of the Soldado has its own distinct storyline, it builds upon the characters and world introduced in the first film. Understanding Kate Macer’s experience in the first film provides crucial context for the actions and motivations of Matt Graver and Alejandro Gillick in the sequel.
Q3: Is Emily Blunt in Sicario: Day of the Soldado?
No, Emily Blunt does not appear in Sicario: Day of the Soldado. The sequel focuses primarily on the characters of Matt Graver and Alejandro Gillick, exploring their partnership and the moral implications of their actions.
Q4: Where are the Sicario movies filmed?
The Sicario films were filmed in various locations to realistically portray the US-Mexico border region. These locations include:
- New Mexico, USA: Albuquerque, Los Lunas, and other parts of New Mexico were used extensively for both films to depict the American side of the border.
- Mexico: Ciudad Juarez and other Mexican locations were used to capture the authentic atmosphere of the cartel-controlled territories.
Q5: What does “Sicario” mean?
The word “Sicario” is Spanish for “hitman” or “assassin.” It is often used to describe individuals who work for drug cartels and are responsible for carrying out violent acts. The title reflects the violent and morally ambiguous nature of the characters and the world they inhabit.
Q6: Who is Alejandro Gillick?
Alejandro Gillick, played by Benicio del Toro, is a former prosecutor turned ruthless assassin. Driven by vengeance for his family’s murder at the hands of a cartel, he works with the American government to dismantle the drug trade, often operating outside the bounds of the law. He is a central figure in both Sicario films, known for his calculating nature and brutal efficiency.
Q7: What are the main themes explored in the Sicario movies?
The Sicario films explore several complex themes, including:
- The War on Drugs: The futility and moral compromises inherent in the fight against drug cartels.
- Moral Ambiguity: The blurred lines between right and wrong and the justification of extreme measures.
- Justice vs. Vengeance: The contrasting motivations of characters seeking justice and those driven by personal revenge.
- Corruption: The pervasive influence of corruption within government and law enforcement agencies.
Q8: Are the Sicario movies based on a true story?
While the Sicario films are fictional, they are inspired by real-world events and the ongoing drug war along the US-Mexico border. The films draw upon extensive research and interviews with law enforcement officials and individuals familiar with cartel activity to create a realistic and compelling depiction of the conflict.
Q9: What is the rating for the Sicario movies?
Both Sicario and Sicario: Day of the Soldado are rated R for strong violence, language, and some drug use. The films contain graphic scenes of violence and are not suitable for younger viewers.
Q10: Who wrote the Sicario movies?
Both Sicario films were written by Taylor Sheridan. He is also known for writing Hell or High Water and Wind River, all of which explore similar themes of morality, violence, and the American West.
Q11: Where can I watch the Sicario movies?
The Sicario movies are typically available for streaming on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix, depending on your region and subscription. They are also available for purchase or rental on digital platforms such as Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability.
Q12: What are some similar movies to Sicario?
If you enjoyed the Sicario films, you might also like:
- Traffic (2000)
- Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
- End of Watch (2012)
- Prisoners (2013)
- Hell or High Water (2016)
- Triple Frontier (2019)
These films share similar themes of crime, law enforcement, moral ambiguity, and the complexities of human nature. They often feature intense action sequences and compelling characters. These films represent a similar examination of complex moral landscapes and high-stakes consequences, making them suitable viewing for those who appreciate the Sicario series.