Review of Sicario (2015) by Richard B — 02 Sep 2017

Although the theme and story are not that novel or complex, this film works surprisingly well with strong performances, dramatic tension, and excellent direction and cinematography. Gritty realism and a grim mood prevail throughout, with brutality giving a rough edge to the action on the ugly, lawless border areas where drug cartels do battle with law enforcement willing to suspend all rules.

Benicio del Toro is especially good in this, portraying an emotionally ravaged character trying to exact revenge for the murder of his wife and daughter by members of a drug cartel. The theme is essentially good guys are no better than bad guys they are charged with bringing to justice when they must resort to the same violence and amoral behavior.

This is injected into the fight against drug cartels, and the personal struggle of a female agent who objects to the methods used by those around her who are convinced there's only one way to keep control of the drug world while never ridding society of the criminal element altogether.

I also appreciated the subtle, low-key and moody music that is used sparingly. It's so refreshing to watch a film that depends on its acting performances, visuals and story line rather than resorting to artificial mood from overbearing soundtrack music.