The Film: Sicario (2015)

What We Know So Far:

An FBI agent (Emily Blunt) is assigned to a task force to help in the fight and the war on drugs that is raging across the border of the United States and Mexico. She comes face to face with the brutality of the conflict.

Watch The Trailer:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgoY9KBEFgI?rel=0&controls=0&showinfo=0&w=640&h=360]

Our Take

David: In the second trailer for this new action thriller, the story gets a few more details and we see a lot more of the film’s namesake (which means “hitman”), Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro), who is a mercenary that “goes where he is sent.” Blunt, playing a cartel specialist who is clearly becoming entangled in questionable activities seems shocked by what she witnesses and appears to be moved to report atrocities, which she is told will be a big mistake. Directed by Denis Villeneuve (Prisoners), the clip does a great job of conveying the suspense and preparing us for what is surely going to be a violent, even at times difficult to watch experience. Blunt has proven to be a great action star and looks to be giving another amazing performance.

Dan: Canadian director, Denis Villeneuve (Enemy), is the main draw here. He helmed the dark adult thriller Prisoners, like David mentioned. This film challenged our ethics, much like Sicario looks to. While the behind the lens talent is super impressive, the talent in front of the lens is super exciting. I’m really anticipating Emily Blunt leading the way here. This could be her Clarice Starling. Add in the unpredictable and eccentric Benicio del Toro, along with the reliable and commanding presence of Josh Brolin, and we’re likely to witness amazing performances all around. Sicario reminds me of the film Traffic, with a complex and tangled morality mess of corrupt agencies. I’m anticipating this one.

What to watch for in the trailer:

David Says: There are two great moments. One, early in the clip, we get Matt (Josh Brolin), a fellow FBI agent who addresses Blunt’s questions about what their objective is by saying, “To dramatically overreact.” I love how this Sneak Peek Moment is filmed as Brolin is sitting, casually resting his chin in his hand, as if this is a philosophy he has lived for a long time. It’s really effective at exposing the chasm between the newbie and the veteran.

The second bit is about halfway through where we get just a glimpse of a blood soaked Emily Blunt in the shower as the water rinses it from her face. While immediately showing that she was in the middle of something deadly, it also speaks volumes about the character too. She is going to be the uncorrupted one, and will fight to come through this clean. It’s thrilling.

Dan Says: The first moment that stands out is the powerful image of Emily Blunt behind the aim of a rifle, framed by a long tunnel. She seems hesitant. There seems like a weight to her decision, as she advances, armed with a weapon. It’s also a powerful image, ensuring us that Blunt is a capable hero here, and one we’ll want to root for.

The second moment is when Benicio del Toro’s hitman character says (as David mentioned), “I go where I’m sent.” What happens if this dangerous man suddenly gains a conscience? Brolin says Del Toro, “works for anyone who will turn him loose.” Including him? Will Del Toro disagree with Brolin’s orders? I like how this Sneak Peak Moment suggests so much more. I’m thinking Brolin could be the surprise antagonist. It seems like Blunt could be forced to pick a side between two anti-heroes in a Catch 22 type situation.