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10

LamontRaymondSep 18, 2015

GREAT movie, that was entirely undersold by the trailer. I actually think that Josh Brolin seals the show. Can't imagine there will be many better movies for the mainstream moviegoer this year. Of course, there will be long, boring biopicsGREAT movie, that was entirely undersold by the trailer. I actually think that Josh Brolin seals the show. Can't imagine there will be many better movies for the mainstream moviegoer this year. Of course, there will be long, boring biopics trotted out for Oscar season, but for my money, this very narrowly tailored and spare film will beat them all. Everyone in my theater was on the edge of their seats. Phenomenal stuff.… Expand

22 of 31 users found this helpful229

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5

kamgeforceDec 25, 2015

Pretty much no story whatsoever, the trend of female and black guy continues, both characters absolutely useless and added only for "diversity" reasons. Solid audio visuals, though the soundtrack is bland and forgetable. Worth seeing only forPretty much no story whatsoever, the trend of female and black guy continues, both characters absolutely useless and added only for "diversity" reasons. Solid audio visuals, though the soundtrack is bland and forgetable. Worth seeing only for Benicio Del Toro.… Expand

8 of 8 users found this helpful80

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6

podunk411Nov 28, 2015

The directing and cinematography were great. The overall performances were solid. However I can't get past how poorly written the main character is, (Emily Blunt) or her partner. There's something missing when they get the short end of theThe directing and cinematography were great. The overall performances were solid. However I can't get past how poorly written the main character is, (Emily Blunt) or her partner. There's something missing when they get the short end of the stick in the story. Almost feels like several key scenes were cut that would've given Blunt's character more of an active role in everything. Whatever the reason for the oversight, it's still an action packed movie worth watching, just not best film of the year.… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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6

jcasetnlNov 30, 2016

Keeps interest with gritty visuals and interesting characters, but Emily Blunt is completely miscast as the hand-picked local law enforcement to assist in a larger drug operation that plays fast and loose with the law. Blunt, sold early inKeeps interest with gritty visuals and interesting characters, but Emily Blunt is completely miscast as the hand-picked local law enforcement to assist in a larger drug operation that plays fast and loose with the law. Blunt, sold early in the film as a tough-but-moral cop (and her toughness is a hard sell, indeed) makes one bumbling, naive move after another as the chaos of the drug war is revealed to her. From a plot perspective, ultimately her roll in the drug operation really doesn't make much sense, and it doesn't take much thought to imagine a ton of other FBI better suited to the overarching goals. Vague, I know, but I can't say more unless you want spoilers.

Setting aside Blunt, a side story of a Mexican State police officer who smuggles drugs never really goes anywhere save to humanize some of the low-level traffickers "just trying to put food on the table". Of course he loves his son. Of course his wife is worried and prays at dinner. Of course his son plays soccer. Lastly, if you like films with military operations, tactics and so on, this isn't your film. Literally in the first couple minutes, Blunt is on an FBI operation to bust a drug house in full body armor, assault weapons and a troop carrier. As they're searching the house yelling tactical stuff like "room clear!", Blunt walks into a room without looking(!!), and the cliche bad guy with a shotgun is of course standing right out in the open, and of course is going to shoot it out despite dozens of agents swarming the building. He manages to miss from five feet away, but ol' quick draw Emily Blunt spins and pumps him full of lead. He falls to the ground still clutching the shotgun, and Blunt walks right up to him, doesn't neutralize his weapon and then checks his pulse. For a film trying to do gritty realism, it doesn't fly.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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6

Brent_MarchantFeb 1, 2016

A would-be thriller that never quite lives up to its potential, due to numerous lapses into labored storytelling. The film's superb action sequences, beautiful cinematography, fine performances and haunting soundtrack are real stand-outs,A would-be thriller that never quite lives up to its potential, due to numerous lapses into labored storytelling. The film's superb action sequences, beautiful cinematography, fine performances and haunting soundtrack are real stand-outs, but, unfortunately, they're undercut by uneven pacing and the inclusion of a little too much padding. With a little tightening up, this could have been a much better effort.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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8

csw12Dec 29, 2015

Sicario is a great follow up from Prisoners by director Villenueve. The cinematography is excellent and score is heart thumping. The movie keeps an intense atmosphere from beginning to end.

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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10

WulfasJan 23, 2016

I want to divide this review into 5 parts: Directing, Cinematography,Writing,Score and finally Acting.
Let's star with Directing - I thought that directing was phenomenal. It seemed that all of the main actors were on the same page as far asI want to divide this review into 5 parts: Directing, Cinematography,Writing,Score and finally Acting.
Let's star with Directing - I thought that directing was phenomenal. It seemed that all of the main actors were on the same page as far as the movie should go. And portrayed their roles perfectly. All of the actors worked together like a well made Swiss watch. Denis Villenueve masterfully managed to capture the intensity and suspense of this mesmerizing thriller. The director cemented his name as one of the best if not the best thriller masters in Hollywood today. I would rate it 18/20
Cinematography - Was really impressive, and manages to capture the audience from the first shot of the movie and never let go of the viewer. The lightning seems bleak, but that just adds to suspense of the movie. There were a lot of impressive shots, including the very well made aerial shots of the USA - Mexican border. I would rate it 17/20
Writing - A movie is as good as it's script. Well in this case it's marvelous. The movie delivers everything it promises and more. It manages to deliver the thrills and sense of intensity from the start. All through out the movie, viewers are encouraged to question every single character, because the line of good and bad in this movie is very thin. 20/20
Score - The composer Johann Johannson manages to do a very good job. Score is done to perfection. Every bit of sound seems to fit the frames perfectly and just helps to add the thrills. I would rate it 18/20
Acting - A give a very big A plus for all the actors in this movie. Like i mentioned before, everyone fitter the role pretty much perfectly with good casting. All of the actors performed very well, so it is very difficult to mention some in particular. It seemed like every actor added something personal to the role, that made them very memorable. The chemistry between actors was something special, every relationship between characters was really intensifying, and mesmerizing. I would rate it 20/20
Now for the MVP of the movie is: Jon Bernthal, who truly might have slipped under the radar. But his performance was both memorable and amazing. Even though he didn't have very much of a screen time, what he did with what he got, was really masterful. He deliver a bad cop, who does not give a bad impression and hides under a mask. His character is like a wolf, disguised himself as a sheep.
In Total i would rate this movie - 95/100. One of the best thrillers ever made, and one of the best last years movies.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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9

stampshotDec 27, 2015

Ultimately a grim and strong movie that accomplishes and serves its theme.
The movie is far from a movie that is suppose to leave you in awe, it's a movie that serves to paint the dark and true terror of a very, very real social issue.
AUltimately a grim and strong movie that accomplishes and serves its theme.
The movie is far from a movie that is suppose to leave you in awe, it's a movie that serves to paint the dark and true terror of a very, very real social issue.
A great movie to watch alone.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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7

EludiumQ36Jun 5, 2016

Tough film to watch at times with depictions of drug cartel savagery, but it provides insight into black ops against drug kingpins. Josh Brolin portrayed well a confident, laid back "Matt", and Benicio Del Toro was convincingly menacing asTough film to watch at times with depictions of drug cartel savagery, but it provides insight into black ops against drug kingpins. Josh Brolin portrayed well a confident, laid back "Matt", and Benicio Del Toro was convincingly menacing as "Alejandro" aka Sicario, however, Emily Blunt made for a poor "Kate". I'm not blaming her, she's a great actress, I'm just saying she was wrong for the role and that took away points from the film because she was more distracting than immersed. The final few scenes of the film were so anti-climatic, too, with "Kate" pointing her gun at "Alejandro" yet again when she was warned not to, and the final soccer field scene. I understand what the director was attempting but it didn't measure up to the prior events. Really needs a more worthy ending if/when someone remakes it.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

NightReviewsFeb 3, 2016

Scorching with the dry and arid heat of the desert land, an aerial view of Phoenix, Arizona fills the opening screen of French Canadian director Denis Villenueve’s newest feature Sicario. Sweaty, pulsating with uncanny tension and trumpetingScorching with the dry and arid heat of the desert land, an aerial view of Phoenix, Arizona fills the opening screen of French Canadian director Denis Villenueve’s newest feature Sicario. Sweaty, pulsating with uncanny tension and trumpeting with constant uncertainty, it seems that the land in which Sicario is based on is inhabited solely by the ravenous animals of the desert; and no, it isn’t referring to the four-legged desert beasts hungry for blood.

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier in the season, Villeneuve’s newest film seems to touch upon a current trend plaguing all new outlets, artistic commentaries and current events; immigration, and not just at a national level, but from a very large and vast international one.

Sicario takes places in the rural desert areas of Arizona and Mexico, setting the tone for a very corrupt and dangerous world where Mexican cartels rule the land, and the sounds of gunshots are as frequent as the cries of wolves. Drug cartels keep citizens in fear, police are as corrupt as the cartels themselves, and the efforts of the United States and their universal judiciary right for “peace” is as subtle as the low-efficiency Black SUV’s snaking their way through the hot highway pavements. With the high exposure of Trump’s high-attention media-driven campaign, as well as age-old conflicts between land, boarders and people in other areas of the world, the issues of immigration are as universal as the numeric system, which makes Villeneuve a perfect candidate to direct a wrought, unbiased and highly effective piece of fiction and reality.

Yet, with all its high-profile media attention and concurrent position in all the headlines, Sicario doesn’t soar to its conventional storyline of corruption and intrigue of mystery for loyalties and alliances; the film itself exceeds due to its honest portrayal of people playing people, dealing in real ways with the abundance of injustice and violence.

The spearhead of these real people is highlighted by the impeccable performance from Emily Blunt. Blunt, who trades in glam for grit, plays Kate Macer, an idealistic Special Weapons and Tactical Team agent who believes in justice and the greater good. During a routine kidnapping raid, Macer and her trusty partner, Reggie Wayne (Daniel Kaluuya), encounter a total of forty-two corpses hidden within the walls of the abandoned home, as well as an explosive device that detonates, killing two officers, and wounding Kate and Reggie. With the aftermath of the explosion behind them, Kate is offered a position working for the CIA and Department of Defence, lead by the egotistical and reckless Matt Graver (Josh Brolin). Using brute force and unconventional and highly illegal methods of dismantling the Mexican drug cartel, the special unit, paired with the help of a very mysterious and highly intimidating Alejandro (Benecio Del Toro), break the rules of law in order to get their men.

Sicario is an uncomfortable film, in every sense of the word. Recommending the film would be a hard sell. If it wasn’t for the always spectacular Del Toro, who chimes in an Oscar worthy supporting performance that requires very little dialogue, but masterful minimalist acting, the film itself isn’t the most commercial in theatres. The intensity of the film stays true to the very blurred lines of federal justice while crossing State lines; constantly being under strict surveillance. Although the characters seem to be always out of their own jurisdiction, Kate seems to be the teams only voice of reason. It becomes quite clear early on, that everyone else in the ops are crossing the rules of the terrain, forcing Kate to bend her very strong and unwavering moral conscious. What might appear to be a very annoying character trait, in reality becomes a selling feature as Kate’s ability to humanize the very barbaric people around her is something audiences admire, not begrudge.

Much like the memorable performance from Del Toro’s Alejandro, Sicario embodies the characteristics of the most memorable strong, silent type characters in cinema. Without over-stimulating the senses in the way Hollywood knows how to, Sicario never lets up its aggressive demeanour, despite its scarcity. Thanks to the wonderful work of Jòhann Jòhannsson (Prisoners, The Theory of Everything, Foxcatcher), who sets an unsettling score with natural sounds of harmful creatures (buzzing of bees, howling of wolves), the film’s score paces the very slow moving material at a very heavy and fluid pace. Matched with the wonderful cinematography of master Roger Deakins, the confident and tremendous direction of Villeneuve, and phenomenal transformation of Blunt as Kate, Sicario is one of the most, if not most, complete films of 2015, in all regards, cinematically speaking.

Visually, the film is a diamond in the rough.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

NathonasFeb 17, 2016

Excellent, serious film that touches on interesting themes like moral ambiguity that makes the viewer question his own beliefs and view of the world. The truth is, it may be impossible to fight horrendous criminals like the cartels when yourExcellent, serious film that touches on interesting themes like moral ambiguity that makes the viewer question his own beliefs and view of the world. The truth is, it may be impossible to fight horrendous criminals like the cartels when your hands are bound by rule of law, but does this justify the things we see? This is what films should do - make us think, question, discuss. And Sicario does an excellent job of that.

I think a lot of people dislike how helpless the protagonist (Kate) is, but to me it just adds realism. There are so many situations in real life where the "good guys" are simply powerless to do anything.

My only criticism is that the film was a bit predictable - it was pretty obvious that nothing would happen to Kate, and unlikely that anything would happen to Alejandro.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

Meth-dudeApr 29, 2020

"Sicario" is a solid, well directed and ambitious thriller. With terrific acting performances, impressive action sequences and a great ending, it definitely deserves the acclaim it gets.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

WheelzFourReelzMar 29, 2016

Though slow at timesSicario is a bleak, brutal, and fascinating thrill ride with phenomenal performances, beautiful cinematography, and a wonderful score.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

GentM2015Mar 20, 2016

Sicario is a very well directed and beautifully shot movie that follows an FBI agent who is enlisted by a governmental task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs.The film is directed by Denis Villeneuve and the lead stars are EmilySicario is a very well directed and beautifully shot movie that follows an FBI agent who is enlisted by a governmental task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs.The film is directed by Denis Villeneuve and the lead stars are Emily Blunt, Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin.
The main things that stand out from this movie are the acting, directing and the brilliant cinematography from the amazing Roger Deakins who can do no wrong.Everybody in the movie is amazing, especially Emily Blunt, who is traumatized most of the time and this is certainly one of the best roles I have ever seen her play. Benicio del Toro also really surprised me and his character is really mysterious.
The action in this movie, while there's not much of it, it was still great and very intense. Also, the score is amazing by Jóhann Jóhannsson and it totally deserved the Oscar nomination.
However this movie is very slow in some parts and it feels like it's dragging on for quite a while. There are some good intense sequences but at the same time some slow parts that go on forever. The ending is also weird with a surprise twist.
Nonetheless I enjoyed this movie but I wouldn't say it's one of the 2015's best.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

BariscanBozkurtMay 11, 2016

Daha önce işlenmeyen bir konu ancak bu kadar güzel aktarılabilir. Kaliteli oyunculuklar, kaliteli sinematografi ve kaliteli hikaye. Nerdeyse kusursuza yakın bir atmosfere sahip. Türü severler mutlaka izlemeli.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

PeterAlexanderJan 6, 2016

Sicario is a film of beauty and terror. Stunning cinematography, raw character emotion and a gripping soundtrack demonstrate the sheer class of director Dennis Villeneuve. Whilst the final act drops off the pace in comparison to the stunningSicario is a film of beauty and terror. Stunning cinematography, raw character emotion and a gripping soundtrack demonstrate the sheer class of director Dennis Villeneuve. Whilst the final act drops off the pace in comparison to the stunning first two, the final shot manages to display the overall message of the film expertly, an overall message that will leave you haunted by what occurs outside the realms of household safety.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

aadityamudharApr 19, 2016

Sicario is a great follow up from Prisoners by director Villenueve. The cinematography is excellent and score is heart thumping. The movie keeps an intense atmosphere from beginning to end.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

Kirollos-NoahNov 29, 2018

Sicario is directed by Denis Villeneuve, written by Taylor Sheridan and starring Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro.

In the lawless border area stretching between the U.S. and Mexico, an idealistic FBI agent [Emily Blunt] isSicario is directed by Denis Villeneuve, written by Taylor Sheridan and starring Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro.

In the lawless border area stretching between the U.S. and Mexico, an idealistic FBI agent [Emily Blunt] is enlisted by an elite government task force official [Josh Brolin] to aid in the escalating war against drugs. Led by an enigmatic consultant with a questionable past [Benicio Del Toro], the team sets out on a clandestine journey forcing Kate to question everything that she believes in order to survive.

A great fast-paced, dark and powerful story, with an amazing direction adding some very talented cast, but with a couple of flaws, this is how Sicario was born.

Let's jump to the flaws.. Emily Blunt's character wasn't so necessary, she had no goal but just going with the waves of this movie, but with her amazing performance, she convinced me -or I pretended being convinced- that her goal is cleaning the world of it's dark crimes, but for me, it's uneven.

Some scenes were so confusing, and there was nothing to give any hope, it's just dark.. from the beginning to the very very end!

These are the flaws of this movie, everything else was well made.. the breathtaking scenes mixed with amazing performances with great story.

Sicario is a great movie, and I'm gonna give it an A-.

Alright, next one is Sicario: Day of the Soldado, stick around. And thanks for reading my review, wish you like it.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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5

foxgroveOct 11, 2015

The problem with Sicario is that it is too much of an infuriating mystery before it becomes anything else. After a stunningly horrific opening the film meanders disappointingly before advancing the story in to any meaningful or understandableThe problem with Sicario is that it is too much of an infuriating mystery before it becomes anything else. After a stunningly horrific opening the film meanders disappointingly before advancing the story in to any meaningful or understandable context. Dealing as it does with the drug trade between Mexico and the states, the picture is predictably violent requiring constant viewer attention, but is never boring. The screenplay is generally fine, but there are definitely situations that are questionable plot contrivances (Officials fast tracking cars through the border only to have them caught in a traffic jam; The pointless act of obtaining Blunt’s signature to stop her talking, and even Del Toro’s motive for his involvement in the operation). The traffic jam shootout is actually a very good set piece and, whilst the film may take its time for three quarters of its length, there is no denying the power and tension created in the last half an hour. The sound and music add volumes in atmosphere and the performances of the three leads are good.
Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro both play unsympathetic characters. Brolin comes over as smug and confidently self-satisfied whilst Del Toro, giving the film’s best performance, is a silent and mysterious character who can turn impassively violent in a heartbeat. Surprisingly, given the early buzz on her role, Emily Blunt’s character turns out to be very reactionary to the males around her. For much of the running time she hasn’t a clue as to what is going on and seems to be there either to be brutalised or ignored, appearing naïve and out of her depth. Considering that this is the type of lead that would normally have gone to a male star it is all the more surprising a let-down. This is definitely not a performance heading for an Oscar nomination despite her excellence at what little is required of her.… Expand

6 of 7 users found this helpful61

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9

MarcDoyleSep 18, 2015

My movie of the year so far. Villeneuve's shots are beautiful, and his control of pace and tone are really unmatched these days. The intensity in some of those tunnel sequences and pursuit scenes is palpable. Felt a little like the secondMy movie of the year so far. Villeneuve's shots are beautiful, and his control of pace and tone are really unmatched these days. The intensity in some of those tunnel sequences and pursuit scenes is palpable. Felt a little like the second half of Zero Dark Thirty. Blunt is obviously solid, but Benicio is over-the-top incredible. Probably his best performance in a now-long career. A great companion piece to this film is FX's "The Bridge", which touches on many of the same Juarez-related issues.… Expand

12 of 15 users found this helpful123

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10

winniemoonsriOct 3, 2015

I couldn't breath at all from the beginning! this is the best movie I ever seen this year!
It could be 1 of 10 best movies this Year on My choice.
Emily and Del Toro were amazing!!!!

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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8

RealLeatherNov 11, 2015

If you like Michael Mann films then you will probably like this. Not a particularly inventive film but it does have it's fair share of very captivating moments and some thrilling short and sweet action sequences. Some of the charactersIf you like Michael Mann films then you will probably like this. Not a particularly inventive film but it does have it's fair share of very captivating moments and some thrilling short and sweet action sequences. Some of the characters (including Emily Blunt's) feel a bit by-the-numbers and some of the story arcs were quite predictable. Del Toro stole the show.… Expand

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10

DemonSoulSep 28, 2015

Unbelievable. A story highly worthy of being told. A very entertaining and flawlessly executed movie. del Toro is incredibly powerful. Blunt delivers an effective performance. And Brolin has evolved and delivers his performance with bitingUnbelievable. A story highly worthy of being told. A very entertaining and flawlessly executed movie. del Toro is incredibly powerful. Blunt delivers an effective performance. And Brolin has evolved and delivers his performance with biting charm. Its only equivalent is The Dark Knight by Nolan, with del Toro almost reaching the heights of the Joker.… Expand

6 of 8 users found this helpful62

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9

reelsightNov 16, 2015

Excellent across the board. Great plot, solid acting, and wonderful camera work make for a totally engrossing and entertaining film. And beneath it all runs a brilliantly dark sense of humor. My kind of movie.

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

emperorpenguinOct 2, 2015

Having seen Prisoners and Enemy by Denis Villenueve, I have a very high expectation going to the theater to see Sicario. Personally, I put Sicario behind Prisoners and Enemy judging from how great Jake Gyllenhaal's acting for both movies,Having seen Prisoners and Enemy by Denis Villenueve, I have a very high expectation going to the theater to see Sicario. Personally, I put Sicario behind Prisoners and Enemy judging from how great Jake Gyllenhaal's acting for both movies, originality and the intensity that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Overall, Sicario is still an amazing movie and one of the best of this year so far.
As the main character, Emily Blunt gives a perfect performance that make us feel and empathize what she is going through throughout the movie. We can feel her frustration, pain, anger and disappointment through her face with just few dialogs. The very last scene really did it for me and it broke my heart. However, Benicio Del Toro as Alejandro gives the best performance of the whole movie.
The writing in this movie is amazing. There are a lot of questions raised in this movie and they answer them seamlessly and perfectly at the right time just to keep us entertained until the very last scene.
The cinematography in this movie is the one that really blows my mind. There are a lot of scenes that you just think "Wow, that is really beautiful". However, for me this is also one of the weakness of this movie because they just keep showing you these beautifully shot scenes that is not necessary to the storyline given the limited amount of dialog and longer runtime of this movie.… Expand

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9

GinaKOct 4, 2015

I thought the beginning of Sicario was sleep-inducing, but others might consider it tense and suspenseful. However, after about the first half hour, I found the movie riveting. I thought the cast was great, especially Benicio Del Toro andI thought the beginning of Sicario was sleep-inducing, but others might consider it tense and suspenseful. However, after about the first half hour, I found the movie riveting. I thought the cast was great, especially Benicio Del Toro and Josh Brolin, but they played the most exciting characters. Emily Blunt, on the other hand, had the most difficult role as the “pawn in the game,” yet you were always interested in her and what was happening to her even though she was as confused and suspicious about what was going on as the audience was most of the time. To make a character like that sympathetic is a neat trick. The movie also managed a message about the “drug wars” – which was perhaps the neatest trick of all – about why they exist at all and how cruel they are, which puts the movie a cut above most action films where the violence is simply meant to entertain.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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10

CarribeanDeanDec 19, 2015

Wow this was well made. excellent performances, excellent direction, music, everything was really well done. It was good to see Benecio del Toro in excellent form. A gritty film full of people being exploited for their beliefs. A betterWow this was well made. excellent performances, excellent direction, music, everything was really well done. It was good to see Benecio del Toro in excellent form. A gritty film full of people being exploited for their beliefs. A better movie was not made this year.… Expand

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10

andrewmakatsariOct 5, 2015

Sicario is my favorite film of the year,it is also my second favorite Denis Vileneuve film ,next to prisoners,it combines a superb cast,delivering top-notch perfomances,great-intense action,mixed with breathtaking cinematography from RogerSicario is my favorite film of the year,it is also my second favorite Denis Vileneuve film ,next to prisoners,it combines a superb cast,delivering top-notch perfomances,great-intense action,mixed with breathtaking cinematography from Roger Deakins,to add up to a fantastic thriller,worthy of Academy nominations in all departments.
Emily Blunt plays a convincing ,by the book,FBI special agent ,whose own naive attitude and nature,gets put to the test as, she's taken into a world ,of mass murder,mutilation,drug wars and political and civilian unrest in the city of Juarez Mexico.She manages to be both cunning and relatable so that no moment feels wasted,whether it is her questioning the indiscriminate, often times risky and reckless,yet surprisingly effective working methods of her newly assigned teammates,or whether she is just throwing up after seeing over a dozen dead bodies being stuffed into walls,like forgotten painting,that lost their use.While Benicio Del Toro,gives the best performance in the movie,that may be told from Blunt's character's Kate's perspective,but the film rightfully belongs to him ,as his emotional arc is deeply intriguing and his past viciously brutal and impactful.Del Toro's Alejandro,is one of the coolest,meanest,and quietest hitmen we've seen all year,decade even,he may not say much,but when he does it means more than the actions of all the characters in the film combined,it's his best work I've seen and rightfully so.While Josh Brolin provides some nice humorous exchanges and masterfully hides his inner motivations and intents,delivering an almost cowboy-like attitude,with a handful of moral lessons to be taught to both Kate and the audience about war,peace and the borders between.
The world of Sicario,is bleak and hopeless,at no point is there a scene or a line or a visual symbol of some sort that indicates that there is still hope in Mexico,the drug war and those involved on both sides are so animalistic in the ways they fight each-other, that the lines are constantly blurred,and the only way to differentiate them from one-another, are uniforms and badges,take those away and you have yourself a gang war.The drop-dead gorgeous cinematography and direction by Villeneuve and Deakins works brilliantly in the movie's favor of delivering the said message.Incredible wide shots of the city,almost looking like a post-apocalyptic desert at times,gives off a sense that these people are quite literally in hell,that they took part in creation of.The action is superbly directed from a filmmaker who never really had action sequences in their past films,yet are capable of dramatizing and intensifying dialogue scenes and regular character exchanges ,more than some filmmakers can with pure action.The set-pieces in this film are peppered and expertly paced throughout,including a terrific shootout on a Mexican border,a thorough opening raid scene ,which leads to unexpected and deadly discoveries.The night-time apart from looking absolutely beautiful and actually darkening the faces of the characters ,without them being in open lit by lamps or lights or even city roads,has an eerie foreboding sense to it and the short gunfights that erupt in it ,with the use of goggles are spontaneous and frenetic ,adding kinetic energy and adrenaline,that lasts, throughout the whole movie.
Sicario is one of the best action films of the year,which cleverly tells a rather traditional drug-bust story,while actually delivering a swift,profound and touching message with it,in addition to towering performances from everyone in the cast,it excellently conveys its dark atmosphere with exquisitely good-looking visuals ,superb direction and the film just like it's lead character,says as much as it does and means more than meets the eye (or ear for that matter).It may not be as good as prisoners,but it certainly proves,why Villeneuve is the perfect choice for Blade Runner 2.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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7

nHeat87Nov 15, 2015

I, much like the lead character in this movie, never quite made a connection with what is supposed to be the plot of the movie. Don't get me wrong, it's a good movie, but I never felt like the character relationships were believable as theyI, much like the lead character in this movie, never quite made a connection with what is supposed to be the plot of the movie. Don't get me wrong, it's a good movie, but I never felt like the character relationships were believable as they were portrayed which was made more difficult with the "gritty" storyline.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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10

ALcrackerOct 3, 2015

Amazing movie! This movie will generate a response from every emoting you have, keep you on the edge of your seat then spit you out begging for more. Seriously this movie completely rocked the audience in such a dramatic manner that not aAmazing movie! This movie will generate a response from every emoting you have, keep you on the edge of your seat then spit you out begging for more. Seriously this movie completely rocked the audience in such a dramatic manner that not a person in the theater said a word while exiting the movie. The silence from overwhelming, thought provoking satisfaction. Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro and Emily Blunt were perfectly cast for these roles.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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8

Xan_RyilDec 3, 2015

What a movie, It is second movie of Director Denis Villeneuve I have seen and both time i said the same. Perfect cast and breathtaking cinematography and background score. Emily Blunt starts the movie with stunning performance but its DelWhat a movie, It is second movie of Director Denis Villeneuve I have seen and both time i said the same. Perfect cast and breathtaking cinematography and background score. Emily Blunt starts the movie with stunning performance but its Del Toro to whom this movie actually belongs. Actor takes torture and perfect assassin to another level.
I did not expect any less from the director of Oscar Nominated Incendies and i was not disappointed.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

MlleChichiOct 1, 2015

Genius. Denis Villeneuve did it again.

Sicario is the kind of drama/action movie you wanna see. The tension and emotions are present 110%. The whole time I could not stop asking myself the question ''Who will pull the trigger first?''. YouGenius. Denis Villeneuve did it again.

Sicario is the kind of drama/action movie you wanna see. The tension and emotions are present 110%. The whole time I could not stop asking myself the question ''Who will pull the trigger first?''. You don't really trust anyone except Kate (Emily Blunt) - who is not trusting anyone either. Every time an ally is met, that ally either dies or betrays someone.

Very efficient movie. Brilliant script & actors. Camera works is A1. Go watch it. Now.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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10

GreenGoblin215Oct 2, 2015

OMFG. I can't emphasize enough in this review how much I absolutely loved this movie. I just finished watching this movie at 10pm and I had to get this review out ASAP. I will start with the story which is cliché but it's also indomitablyOMFG. I can't emphasize enough in this review how much I absolutely loved this movie. I just finished watching this movie at 10pm and I had to get this review out ASAP. I will start with the story which is cliché but it's also indomitably told in real time. I know a handful of movies that use flashbacks to tell the story but this one doesn't and I enjoy that fact. I will say this much about the story that it's about an FBI agent tasked with helping a non-disclosed agency take down a Cartel. I will now move onto the acting which brought there A-Game for sure. The cast is incredibly strong with Emily Blunt,Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro being the main three characters. They are all fascinating but Del Toro in my opinion blows the movie out of the water with his character. They all have fantastic rapport. I will now move onto the action which while this isn't a Michael Bay movie the scenes that do take place are on point with excruciating detail that it boarders realism. The scenes are violent and bloody and are meant to invoke a certain feeling of awe and dread simultaneously. I must also talk about the cinematography which was done by Roger Deakins who is a mastermind when it comes to the angles and etc of the film and it's absolutely Phenomenal in every aspect and it brings the movie to life and the sounds of everything in the movie from the gunfire to the city aspect will leave you transfixed onto the screen. The banter between the characters including the Delta Force Operators is impeccably done. The director Denis Villeneuve was terrific and I applaud him for such a powerhouse of a motion picture. I will finish by saying this is my new favorite movie of 2015 which prior was "Mad Max: Fury Road" but this takes the whole bakery. I would recommend watching this movie without a doubt. A Masterpiece rapped in a bow.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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8

hotfromcauldronSep 21, 2015

Sicario is a dynamite hybrid of Homeland and True Detective. It’s a gritty examination of Mexico’s dire drug problem and it’s effects on the USA. Outstanding cinematography - of a landscape that is character in itself- and music thatSicario is a dynamite hybrid of Homeland and True Detective. It’s a gritty examination of Mexico’s dire drug problem and it’s effects on the USA. Outstanding cinematography - of a landscape that is character in itself- and music that heightens the tension combine with Villeneuve’s superb storytelling and intense performances especially by Emily Blunt- who holds her own in a tough male dominated world. It’s a movie that could propel Trump into the oval office - with it’s own solution.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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10

RvwFromUpHereOct 13, 2015

Who: Emily Blunt, Daddy Warbucks, and Brand from the Goonies as Matt Graver
What: The best movie ending since No Country for Old Men
Where: Drug filled cities too gruesome for Breaking Bad When (can I watch again): Almost immediately Why:Who: Emily Blunt, Daddy Warbucks, and Brand from the Goonies as Matt Graver
What: The best movie ending since No Country for Old Men
Where: Drug filled cities too gruesome for Breaking Bad
When (can I watch again): Almost immediately
Why: So you can walk away from the film feeling so futile nothing else in life matters...but in a good way… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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8

harmattanSep 21, 2015

Very good "Heart of Darkness"-type film. Not a masterpiece by any means, but it gets across its ideas through a well-paced plot and, overall, some great acting (Blunt being the weak link here by a good margin). Superb atmosphere and someVery good "Heart of Darkness"-type film. Not a masterpiece by any means, but it gets across its ideas through a well-paced plot and, overall, some great acting (Blunt being the weak link here by a good margin). Superb atmosphere and some truly, truly beautiful cinematography, although the "grittiness" is at times shoved down your throat. I found it very akin to Zero Dark Thirty.

Del Toro, Kaluuya and the guy from Burn Notice turn in great performances. Brolin does a great job as an off-the-grid loose cannon and brings home the comic relief.… Expand

7 of 10 users found this helpful73

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10

bravebladesSep 19, 2015

One word. Outstanding! Movie full of understatements, but obvious. Great atmosphere primarily with photos and music. all delicious. highly recommend to anyone who love action and true stories.

7 of 10 users found this helpful73

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10

ThegodfathersonSep 21, 2015

Sicario is a film that engulfs you in a nasty world of drugs and deceit. It is easily one of the best examples of excellent filmmaking in many years. The plot follows an ambitious FBI agent (Emily Blunt) who gets called to Juarez, Mexico toSicario is a film that engulfs you in a nasty world of drugs and deceit. It is easily one of the best examples of excellent filmmaking in many years. The plot follows an ambitious FBI agent (Emily Blunt) who gets called to Juarez, Mexico to take town the dirty and come down with the clean, unfortunately, a dark hitman (Bencio Del Toro) and a seedy agent (Josh Brolin) come in her way and eventually destroy her from the inside. Plot twists are key here and director Denis Villeneuve makes sure of that. Lies, cheats, violence, it all bends together in the shocking climax that I won't forget for a long time. It has been nominated for a Palme De Or and I hope it wins. A must watch.… Expand

7 of 10 users found this helpful73

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10

ledaumasOct 4, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a movie I didn't need to see as the subject matter was too dark for me, but I saw the whole movie. Amazing writing and acting. You see how the bad and really bad characters do have some feelings, but only for their families as they do awful things. Only Emily Blunt's idealistic character thinks it can be fixed the right way with normal actions. By the end of the movie, you realize bad people are the only ones who can possibly break up this evil. Amazing acting job from Benicio in retaining our sympathy as he commits atrocious acts! Josh added the right comical balance that made me keep watching despite the fact that I did not like the story. The movie depicts another instance of human depravity that is happening today.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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9

SpookydarrenSep 24, 2015

Great to see a proper film (at last) this year. I was getting worried. Script is concise and very "non Hollywood"(the best way I can describe it) so no daft exposition here. Lovely cinematography, the shot as they walk into a sunset is aGreat to see a proper film (at last) this year. I was getting worried. Script is concise and very "non Hollywood"(the best way I can describe it) so no daft exposition here. Lovely cinematography, the shot as they walk into a sunset is a corker. But its the tension build that's the real kicker here, you know that the scenes are building to a climax but there is a real sense of anticipation. Best movie of 2015 for me so far.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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9

tjman09Oct 3, 2015

Sicario is a completely engrossing, beautifully shot, terrifically acted thriller that exceeds expectations. I didn't know what to expect from this film, but I was surprised that from the opening shot the film had me hooked. I won't give awaySicario is a completely engrossing, beautifully shot, terrifically acted thriller that exceeds expectations. I didn't know what to expect from this film, but I was surprised that from the opening shot the film had me hooked. I won't give away the opening scene, but I'd find it hard to believe that you're bored after seeing that. Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro are easily two of the better performances I've seen this year, and as per usual Villeneuve get's terrifically dark performances from his brilliant cast. Villeneuve's taut direction, combined with beautiful cinematography, and an amazing score, make Sicario one of his best in his constantly growing filmography. The end result is a great movie, that will almost definitely get recognition at award season.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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9

RudigerXSep 26, 2015

Took my wife to see this movie and we both loved it. The action pieces were amazing and during some of them it had me feel like I was there. It's hard to explain but at times the characters would look into the camera and make it seem likeTook my wife to see this movie and we both loved it. The action pieces were amazing and during some of them it had me feel like I was there. It's hard to explain but at times the characters would look into the camera and make it seem like they were looking back at you. Amazing. I recommend this movie to anyone who has an interest in military intelligence and black ops as there was a heavy focus on this.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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8

TVJerryOct 15, 2015

An idealistic FBI agent (Emily Blunt) joins a special task force (including Josh Brolin & Benicio Del Toro) that uses questionable tactics to fight drug traffic between Mexico and the US. This intelligently-written film unfolds the complexAn idealistic FBI agent (Emily Blunt) joins a special task force (including Josh Brolin & Benicio Del Toro) that uses questionable tactics to fight drug traffic between Mexico and the US. This intelligently-written film unfolds the complex narrative by withholding information, reflecting the agent's own confused state. The style of director Denis Villeneuve sometimes calls attention to itself with atypical camera placement, but he also makes uncommon choices that heighten the drama. Blunt effectively pulls off the mix of tough confidence and vulnerable bafflement. This film rejects typical drug crime tropes for a more cerebral approach that still has visceral moments of violence.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

fungusgnatNov 2, 2015

The conflict here is, naturally, within Kate, and takes the form of a struggle between a desire to go strictly by the book and generate prosecutable cases on the one hand and, on the other, the attraction of using extra-legal means to knockThe conflict here is, naturally, within Kate, and takes the form of a struggle between a desire to go strictly by the book and generate prosecutable cases on the one hand and, on the other, the attraction of using extra-legal means to knock off kingpins and make a real difference. I’ve seen few U.S. movies about the border war on drugs. " Traffic" comes to mind. There must be others. "Traffic"was a good movie (Metascore 86), but I like "Sicario" even better—director and composer instill a sense of menace and extreme jeopardy, suspense builds to great concluding scenes (will likely make my top 10 for 2015). Warning: Movie is bloody and occasionally gruesome—nothing truly over the top by today’s standards but just a tip to the more sensitive types.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

NickLikesMoviesDec 23, 2015

Director Denis Villeneuve does a phenomenal job crafting a visually striking, intense, atmospheric thrill ride.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

GerNJan 9, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Confused and crushed sums up Emily Blunt's character in Sicario. And that is how the director intends for the audience to feel. But the confusion prevents us from a deeper connection with "Kate" as we struggle to understand what is happening and why. It is a testimony to EB's skill that we remain involved with Kate/Kat whose curiosity does lead to her undoing. If Sicario had focused more on her moral quandary (duty and greater good versus breaking the law and doing bad things) and less on her drive to understand, she would have been much more believeable. Instead, we want to shout "who cares why, just walk away from this moral morass". I am tempted (a little) to watch Sicario again without the confusion. But no, I'm not that curious.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

BrianMcCriticOct 3, 2015

This film gives you a sense of dread in almost every minute of the film. Sicario kind of reminded me of Training Day a young cop wanting to help make a difference, but is stuck in a world with no hope. A-

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

moviemitch96Oct 8, 2015

An expertly-made and very intense film all around! Emily Blunt, Benicio Del Toro, and Josh Brolin each gave top-notch performances. Almost every scene presented in the film provided great tension or suspense in one way or another. Even theAn expertly-made and very intense film all around! Emily Blunt, Benicio Del Toro, and Josh Brolin each gave top-notch performances. Almost every scene presented in the film provided great tension or suspense in one way or another. Even the sound really stood out. I normally don't pay great attention to little details like that in films, but the sound of the guns among other things sounded so realistic, giving the film even more of an unexpected sense of realism. The story was intriguing, well-written, and often kept me fixated and wondering what was going to happen next. Overall, despite kind of a slow pace towards the beginning, the film quickly picks up and doesn't let go until its final moments. It's also another great and notable achievement from director Denis Villeneuve and his best work since Prisoners!… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

AxgrinderOct 10, 2015

Sicario is a powerful movie, an important movie. It’s the best movie I’ve seen so far this year. The casting is perfect. Benicio Del Toro is superb. His performance is easily worthy of an Oscar nomination. Josh Brolin and Emily Blunt areSicario is a powerful movie, an important movie. It’s the best movie I’ve seen so far this year. The casting is perfect. Benicio Del Toro is superb. His performance is easily worthy of an Oscar nomination. Josh Brolin and Emily Blunt are also extremely good. As a hardened movie watcher, this is my kind of movie.
The movie maintains a consistently high level of dramatic tension. It also has the necessary level of believability and realism. While the level of violence is very high, it’s not what I would consider gratuitous. Sicario isn’t as dark as No country for Old Men, but if you tend to hide your face at such movies, then Sicario probably isn’t for you.
Emily Blunt plays a by-the-book FBI agent who volunteers for an assignment being run by James Brolin, purportedly under the auspices of the Department of Defense, to disrupt the Mexican drug cartels. The ruthlessness of these drug lords is unquestioned, a point evidenced through scenes of mutilated bodies hung from ropes beneath city bridges in Juarez, Mexico, and further driven home when Del Torro suggests to Blunt that the victims probably didn’t even do anything wrong, the drug lords simply want people to know that this is what happens to you if you do something they don’t like. Juarez, which is just across the border from El Paso, is one of the deadliest cities in the world.
The story is a twist on a couple of old tropes. In Sicario (and maybe in real life), America and Mexico are losing the battle against the drug cartels. Brolin has been authorized to do whatever it takes to turn the tide. Benicio Del Toro, whose background is even murkier than Brolin’s, has been enlisted to help. Blunt is recruited to join the team for reasons that aren’t revealed to her. She’s neither a new agent, nor a jaded veteran. She’s been exposed to some hard core violence and death, and she’s performed well, but she’s not a fully seasoned veteran.
After joining Brolin’s team, it quickly becomes clear that Blunt is in way over her head. In addition, she strongly objects to the methodology employed by Brolin as being both illegal and immoral. (If your enemy is helpless and you kill him, are you any better than your enemy?)
The film maker wants you to agonize over is whether Blunt is right or wrong in her convictions. As if to further inflame the tension, the movie pits masculine against feminine. Blunt is the only female in the group. The movie taunts you with a female lead character that may not be as smart or as wise as you would like her to be. But this is red herring, meant to test you’re feminist sensitivities. As an actor, I like Blunt a lot, and to her credit, she takes the role that she is given and she plays it great. But, in the end, Del Torro dominates. In the not-soon-to-be-forgotten closing scene, Benicio tells Blunt to, ‘go home, you’ll never survive here. This is the land of wolves and you’re no wolf.’
When Oscar time rolls around, you’re going to hear a lot of people say, “I never heard of that film, what’s it about?” Don’t be like that. Go see this film.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

oDjentoDec 4, 2015

Villenueve is an incredible director. With an astonishing opening that’s gritty and visceral, and bringing incredible foreshadowing with the motes of dust you can see why people are pumped about this film.
The gore is brief but effective.Villenueve is an incredible director. With an astonishing opening that’s gritty and visceral, and bringing incredible foreshadowing with the motes of dust you can see why people are pumped about this film.
The gore is brief but effective. The violence is covered and not made to excite, but is extremely effective. Denis shows how insignificant a good person can be in a male dominated world full of deceit and wrong doing. He shows we run in a cycle, and if you change something for the ‘better’, things always end up worse. In a way he shows chaos theory.
Emily Blunt is a great character but it is Benicio Del Toro who is the biggest star of this, and in one scene with him towards the end of the film he had 75% of the audience in my cinema gasp.
An incredible film, although personally I’d say I enjoyed Prisoners a tad more.
7.9/10… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

EpicRetroNerdNov 16, 2015

One of the most gripping and intense movies this year, The acting from everyone is believable and raw, especially Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro.. The score is booming, intense and accompanies the scenes perfectly. The cinematography is theOne of the most gripping and intense movies this year, The acting from everyone is believable and raw, especially Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro.. The score is booming, intense and accompanies the scenes perfectly. The cinematography is the best I have scene in a while, shots linger and every shot feels very well crafted. And all of this is controlled by one of the best directors around Denis Villeneuve.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

TechnoElfNov 12, 2015

I saw this film kn opening day and thought it would be another stupid war movie. I was wrong. I forgot I was jn the cinema and thought that I was in the film. The acting might be the best acting I have seen this entire year and theI saw this film kn opening day and thought it would be another stupid war movie. I was wrong. I forgot I was jn the cinema and thought that I was in the film. The acting might be the best acting I have seen this entire year and the cinematography is just beautiful. It is kind of like the stupid war movies but it has that twist that makes it a step (or two steps) up form all the others.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

FrostyOwlReviewOct 9, 2015

Amazingly high standard of acting, intense plot and well developed characters, along with a hostile and intriguing setting make this movie stand out from the crowd.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

liveAndLetLiveNov 1, 2015

I have not seen a movie start out this good since The Dark Knight. I was at the edge of my seat for the first hour. The driving seen into and out of Mexico was amazing. 5 Chevys bumper to bumper meet up with federal police in the blink ofI have not seen a movie start out this good since The Dark Knight. I was at the edge of my seat for the first hour. The driving seen into and out of Mexico was amazing. 5 Chevys bumper to bumper meet up with federal police in the blink of an eye and it makes you feel like you're in part of the mission. Highly recommend this movie. No one gets shot between the eyes oh head explodes but there are some mangled bodies hanging.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

Movie-Freak-KKNov 8, 2015

Dennis Villeneuve,the man behind Prisoners, Enemy and The Incendies , did it once again ! Imagine having the dazzling cinematography in True Detective, the heart-pounding atmosphere in Prisoners and the angry-ship sound effect in InceptionDennis Villeneuve,the man behind Prisoners, Enemy and The Incendies , did it once again ! Imagine having the dazzling cinematography in True Detective, the heart-pounding atmosphere in Prisoners and the angry-ship sound effect in Inception all in a film. Here goes Sicario ! Emily Blunt and Bernicio Del Toro were also great in it ! Can't wait to see the Blade Runner sequel… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

TheBloodRavenDec 30, 2015

Sicario was a superb film that i heavily enjoyed from start to finish. Emily Blunt smashes her role as a morally conscience FBI agent with a need to hunt down the bad guys. The films overall tone is gritty and dark, highlighting the harshSicario was a superb film that i heavily enjoyed from start to finish. Emily Blunt smashes her role as a morally conscience FBI agent with a need to hunt down the bad guys. The films overall tone is gritty and dark, highlighting the harsh reality of the violence and horror that occurs in the modern world of America as well as parts of Mexico. Benicio Del Toro nails it as a mysterious and deadly antagonist and this really shines in his scenes with Blunt, conveying an underling light vs dark and good vs evil theme. Sicario's cinematography is brilliant. The film is definitely one of the best looking of 2015 with vibrant and colorful backdrops, juxtaposing heavily with the dark scenes transpiring in the foreground. Josh Brolin and Daniel Kaluuya also are strong supporting actors, both providing the film with a heightened sense of urgency as well as a balanced level of comic relief which doesn't take away from the films overarching narrative. Sicario is a well written story, however the film does fall short in some scenes with slow moving plot points and a handful of unnecessary scenes. Nonetheless, Sicario deserves praise for a gripping story, stellar and intense action pieces, strong performances in most characters as well as a chilling finish which will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

MrBurkeJan 15, 2016

A true horror film for the 21st Century. A Kubrick level horror masterpiece disguised as a police thriller. In a lot of ways it's a haunted house movie. Haunted homes, haunted caves, driving through haunted cities. Descending into theA true horror film for the 21st Century. A Kubrick level horror masterpiece disguised as a police thriller. In a lot of ways it's a haunted house movie. Haunted homes, haunted caves, driving through haunted cities. Descending into the horrific as a general theme. Unbelievably tense scene building and an endless array of incredible shots thanks to the man, myth and legend: cinematographer Roger Deakins.

It seems like this guy Villeneuve can't make a movie that isn't genuinely exceptional. I did not have an interest in the plot of Prisoners, and it ended up being my favorite film of that year hands down. Same thing with his other incredible film Enemy. I had very little interest in Sicario's story as well, assuming it was going to be bland and derivative, and it ended up enthralling me literally from beginning to end. Could be the strongest director working today, if not easily in the top 5. If he keeps em coming at this level of quality, well he can shut up and take my money cause I'm sold!… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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4

CanisrahDec 25, 2015

A convoluted and obtuse plot badly paced can't be explained away by using adjectives like 'gritty' and 'edgy'. But slow exposition aside there are some tense sequences which are entertaining but for the major flaw in this film. The casting.A convoluted and obtuse plot badly paced can't be explained away by using adjectives like 'gritty' and 'edgy'. But slow exposition aside there are some tense sequences which are entertaining but for the major flaw in this film. The casting.

Seriously - Emily Blunt is totally superfluous to the story as is her sidekick. Not only is the presence of this jarring duo unnecessary, but Emily's presence amongst the Delta soldiers and other tough guys comes off as forced and weak. The 'tough female protagonist' angle they were aiming for falls absolutely flat and ends up looking quite absurd.

Ultimately what could have been a serviceable action thriller is undermined by silly casting probably done for 'diversity' reasons - Hollywood insists on pushing this unrealistic feminist/social justice narrative which sees Emily blunt look like a fish out of water and her black guy buddy totally useless and superfluous. If you are going to cast a tough female... at least give her character some flesh to go with the bones and some contextual reason in the plot for actually being there.

It got quite amusing in the end - tense action sequences followed by numerous scenes of Emily Blunt smoking. Action (in which Emily is pretty much a passenger). Emily Smoking. Emily needs a new bra (that's in the film). Action. Emily smoking.

Meh.… Expand

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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10

jasharkowalskiSep 27, 2015

Yes, it's bloody, yes it's a cliche in the beginning, and yes, this is a sequel to previous Benicio's drug movie, Traffic....but everything stops there, once u swallow cold served dish everything turns into a gem.....from that scene whereYes, it's bloody, yes it's a cliche in the beginning, and yes, this is a sequel to previous Benicio's drug movie, Traffic....but everything stops there, once u swallow cold served dish everything turns into a gem.....from that scene where united police forces fly over speed bumps until the last scene, this film is probably the best thriller you will see this year....Benicio is now an angel of death arrived from Columbia, Emily Blunt is a cutie while Josh Brolin wearing flip flops plays another role tailored for his limitless talent....yet, in the end, the main character in the film is the border between USA and Mexico, shot like never before and with the best music in a film i have ever heard.....this is 10 out of 10!… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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5

penfifteenSep 27, 2015

Great acting. Great cinematography. GREAT music. Great directing. But a mediocre plot. The protagonist, who you want to take action and have a little input in her own future, is a passive passenger, only along for the ride (kicking andGreat acting. Great cinematography. GREAT music. Great directing. But a mediocre plot. The protagonist, who you want to take action and have a little input in her own future, is a passive passenger, only along for the ride (kicking and screaming the whole way.) The first half is amazing, the second half, unfortunately, is a bit of a dud.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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7

AliceofXSep 22, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sicario is a film about the powerlessness of man when faced with great evil. When it all comes over you, more akin to a storm or some other natural catastrophe.

The film has a slow pace and it takes its time building up to the main point of the story. The final scene with Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro is among the best that I have seen this year.

Sicario's combination of gruesome violence and minimal soundtrack creates this strange atmosphere to the film. It is amidst the most depressing I've see. Now I'm not talking about tear-jerking sad films, but about that sort of bleak hopelessness that is hard to get right.

Recently there was an article that said they are planning a sequel with Benicio Del Toro's character and I wondered how would they do that since the film's focus is on Kate. She embodies the film's point. Very quickly you notice that she is the only female character in a land of men. I think this was a deliberate choice to further showcase how she stands out in this world, a world without the good guys. A world where those who play by the rules can't win.

Overall, Sicario might not be a film for everyone but I think it will definitely have a place amongst this year's best.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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4

VNVreviewerJan 10, 2016

Please don't be fooled by the trailers and any review stating this movie is "action packed" because it isn't. There is some action and most of it is well done (I say only most because the tunnel sequence near the end was extremely poorlyPlease don't be fooled by the trailers and any review stating this movie is "action packed" because it isn't. There is some action and most of it is well done (I say only most because the tunnel sequence near the end was extremely poorly done) but "action packed" is an exaggeration. In between the sparse action is a very slow paced and obtuse movie. Another negative is Emily Blunt's character. I say her character because it is the writing that's at fault rather than Emily Blunt's portrayal. Her constant questioning and moral dilemmas just came across as very irritating and I didn't empathize with her character one bit. Her and her partner's exclusion would have made for a slightly less complicated and more enjoyable movie. Some other positives are that the cinematography was very good, the soundtrack was very atmospheric and effective and Benicio Del Toro was as cool and magnetic as ever but these weren't enough to save the movie. If you're interested in the subject matter, I would still recommend it but if like me, you're not and are looking for an entertaining movie, you should avoid watching it.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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10

johnem95Oct 3, 2015

The performances are outstanding, the action is sweat-inducing, and Roger Deakins' cinematography is simply put; amazing. Definitely one of the year's best films.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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8

Jess_HillSep 25, 2015

A tense drama that is engaging yet leaves you feeling helpless. The performances are excellent, Blunt is superb, and the ensemble cast present subtle characters with depth and precision. The storyline is complex, revealing itselfA tense drama that is engaging yet leaves you feeling helpless. The performances are excellent, Blunt is superb, and the ensemble cast present subtle characters with depth and precision. The storyline is complex, revealing itself incrementally, meaning the motivations of the characters reveal themselves slowly; too late in some instances. The pacing is restrained, and the overall plot plays out to a somewhat unsatisfying conclusion. Themically, this is necessary, and ultimately I enjoyed this film. A second viewing would enhance the experience again. 8.32/10… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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6

Douglas56Sep 26, 2015

The film has its virtues – principally the acting and the look, which is occasionally gorgeous – but it falls short in the most important department, the script. With a predictable plot on a well-worn theme, and with little dialogue of note,The film has its virtues – principally the acting and the look, which is occasionally gorgeous – but it falls short in the most important department, the script. With a predictable plot on a well-worn theme, and with little dialogue of note, it's very hard for Villeneuve to sustain any dramatic tension. What tension there is is largely supplied by an excellent and suitably grim soundtrack. The film's 'message', if that's the right word, is that after decades of politicians' rhetoric about 'the war on drugs', the reality is that this is what drug enforcement has become - just another bloody war - with all that implies for the rule of law and the pursuit of justice. That's really the best I can say about Sicario.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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3

ColbertSep 5, 2016

Overrated movie. Decent acting from everybody but Emily Blunt spends most of the movie smoking cigarettes while looking confused and worried at the same time. Her character would never have been chosen for the mission if anybody had checkedOverrated movie. Decent acting from everybody but Emily Blunt spends most of the movie smoking cigarettes while looking confused and worried at the same time. Her character would never have been chosen for the mission if anybody had checked her psych profile. Why her buddy tags along doesn't make sense.
This is not a movie about drug trafficking. Its a government sanctioned revenge story which flippantly looks through the window at a major problem but uses it only as a backdrop for Blunts dilemma.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

j1trainNov 7, 2015

An intense, unflinching thriller with tremendous performances from a great cast. Emily Blunt is a real force as is Benicio Del Toro who ends up stealing the show from her in the final act. Beautiful and raw filmmaking.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

eagleeyevikingJan 5, 2016

With picturesque cinematography, solid acting and a tight plot, Sicario aims and succeeds in being more than just an action packed vehicle for Emily Blunt.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

roosevelt323Oct 5, 2015

Movies are.... in my opinion.... should either entertain us or intrigue us... Sicario does both. High paced police activity and real life-like shootouts coupled with the intrigue of espionage, surveillance, drug wars, and revenge.... makeMovies are.... in my opinion.... should either entertain us or intrigue us... Sicario does both. High paced police activity and real life-like shootouts coupled with the intrigue of espionage, surveillance, drug wars, and revenge.... make for a great time at the movies.. this genre is not for everyone. Not everyone wants to see craft... cinematic brilliance... some of us want a kick ass movie like this one.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

jeremypOct 17, 2015

The best directed movie of the year, so far. Very intense, taut, and engrossing. Zero Dark Thirty in Juarez. It's more than morally ambiguous, it's Real Politik on steroids. Along for the ride, and used primarily to put a imprimatur ofThe best directed movie of the year, so far. Very intense, taut, and engrossing. Zero Dark Thirty in Juarez. It's more than morally ambiguous, it's Real Politik on steroids. Along for the ride, and used primarily to put a imprimatur of legality on nefarious spec ops is a "do it by the book" FBI agent played by Emily Blunt, whose shock rather than awe attempts to balance out the amoral and illegal methodology of the pragmatic Alpha males. Her remonstrations do get a little tiresome, and she never seems to get it. Whatever works, do it, and to hell with the book. The score is amazing, Oscar worthy.… Expand