There are currently two films in the Sicario movie franchise: Sicario (2015) and Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018). While a third installment has been discussed, it remains unreleased, leaving the definitive count at two.
Unpacking the Sicario World
Denis Villeneuve’s Sicario exploded onto the scene in 2015, offering a bleak and unflinching portrayal of the US government’s war on drugs at the US-Mexico border. Its gritty realism, coupled with a compelling narrative and outstanding performances, captivated audiences and critics alike. Sicario: Day of the Soldado, directed by Stefano Sollima, followed in 2018, further exploring the morally ambiguous world and expanding the characters’ journeys. But beyond these two established films, the Sicario universe continues to be a topic of discussion, raising many questions about its future, its themes, and its impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Sicario Movies
This section delves into the common questions surrounding the Sicario films, providing detailed answers and context for a deeper understanding.
1. Is there a third Sicario movie in the works?
The possibility of a third Sicario film, often referred to as Sicario: Capos, has been a subject of speculation and discussion for years. While there haven’t been any official announcements confirming its production, producer Basil Iwanyk has repeatedly expressed interest in continuing the story. He has hinted at potential storylines focusing on Alejandro Gillick (Benicio Del Toro) and his evolving relationship with Miguel (Elijah Rodriguez), hinting that a script exists and development is ongoing. However, factors such as scheduling conflicts with the actors and creative decisions have delayed the project. As of now, Sicario: Capos remains in development hell, but the possibility remains alive.
2. What is the chronological order of the Sicario films?
The chronological order of the Sicario films is straightforward:
- Sicario (2015)
- Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
3. What is the meaning of the word “Sicario”?
The word “Sicario” is Spanish for “hitman” or “contract killer.” It’s derived from the Latin word “sicarius,” referring to a type of assassin in ancient Rome who concealed a dagger (sica) under their cloak. This title perfectly encapsulates the violent and morally complex world depicted in the films.
4. What makes the Sicario movies so compelling?
Several factors contribute to the compelling nature of the Sicario movies:
- Realism: The films strive for a gritty and realistic portrayal of the drug war and the complex ethical dilemmas faced by those involved.
- Moral Ambiguity: The characters are not simply “good” or “evil,” but rather complex individuals operating in a morally gray area.
- Strong Performances: The actors, particularly Benicio Del Toro, Josh Brolin, and Emily Blunt, deliver captivating performances that bring depth and nuance to their characters.
- Suspenseful Storytelling: The films are masterfully paced, building tension and suspense throughout.
- Atmospheric Cinematography and Score: The stunning visuals and haunting score create a palpable sense of dread and unease.
5. Are the Sicario movies based on a true story?
The Sicario movies are not based on a specific true story, but they are heavily influenced by real-world events and the ongoing drug war between the United States and Mexico. The writers and directors have drawn inspiration from news reports, documentaries, and interviews with law enforcement officials to create a plausible and disturbing portrayal of the conflict.
6. Is it necessary to watch Sicario before Sicario: Day of the Soldado?
While Sicario: Day of the Soldado can be enjoyed as a standalone film, watching the first Sicario movie beforehand is highly recommended. It provides crucial context for the characters, particularly Alejandro Gillick and Matt Graver, and their motivations. Understanding their past experiences in the first film enhances the appreciation and understanding of their actions in the second.
7. Who are the main characters in the Sicario films and what are their roles?
The main characters in the Sicario films include:
- Kate Macer (Emily Blunt): An idealistic FBI agent recruited to a task force fighting the drug war. She serves as the audience’s moral compass and struggles with the ethical implications of the task force’s methods.
- Alejandro Gillick (Benicio Del Toro): A mysterious and ruthless “consultant” with a personal vendetta against the drug cartels. He is a skilled assassin and operates outside the boundaries of the law.
- Matt Graver (Josh Brolin): A CIA operative leading the task force. He is pragmatic and willing to bend the rules to achieve his objectives.
- Miguel (Elijah Rodriguez): A young Mexican-American boy who becomes entangled in the drug war and forms a complex relationship with Alejandro in Sicario: Day of the Soldado.
8. Who directed the Sicario movies?
Sicario (2015) was directed by Denis Villeneuve, known for his work on films such as Prisoners, Arrival, and Blade Runner 2049. Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018) was directed by Stefano Sollima, who also directed Suburra and Without Remorse.
9. Who wrote the Sicario movies?
Both Sicario and Sicario: Day of the Soldado were written by Taylor Sheridan, who has also written acclaimed films such as Hell or High Water and Wind River, and created the television series Yellowstone. Sheridan’s distinctive writing style is characterized by its gritty realism, complex characters, and exploration of moral themes.
10. What are the main themes explored in the Sicario movies?
The Sicario movies explore several important themes, including:
- The Nature of Good and Evil: The films challenge the traditional notion of good and evil, presenting characters who operate in a morally ambiguous world.
- The War on Drugs: The films offer a bleak and unflinching portrayal of the US government’s war on drugs and its unintended consequences.
- The Corruption of Power: The films depict how power can corrupt individuals and institutions, leading to unethical and even illegal actions.
- Revenge and Justice: The characters grapple with the concepts of revenge and justice, often blurring the lines between the two.
- The Loss of Innocence: The films show how the violence of the drug war can strip away innocence, particularly for those who are caught in the crossfire.
11. Where were the Sicario movies filmed?
Sicario was primarily filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Sicario: Day of the Soldado was filmed in New Mexico, specifically in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Moriarty. The landscapes of these locations play a significant role in establishing the atmosphere and realism of the films.
12. Will Emily Blunt return if a third Sicario movie is made?
This is a question that often arises, and the answer remains uncertain. Taylor Sheridan has indicated that the potential Sicario: Capos would likely focus on Alejandro and Matt, suggesting that Kate Macer’s story has concluded. However, producer Basil Iwanyk has not entirely ruled out the possibility of her return in the future. Ultimately, whether Emily Blunt will return depends on the specific storyline and her availability.