Review of Sicario (2015) by Sheldon C — 28 Feb 2016

SICARIO is a thrilling film that plays like a gradual punch of adrenaline; it is a master class in the control of tension as it places, lingers, and develops it in all the right places. This is achieved courtesy of not only Denis Villeneuve's bold direction but also the original score's strong presence and top-notch editorial and cinematographic execution.

Not for the faint-hearted, this film truly aims to make viewers feel the weight of the scenes and is great in many ways once some glaring flaws are overlooked - flaws that include (1) a script that by the end isn't as expansive and fulfilling as initially indicated, and (2) some rushed and implausible moments of decision and protocol regarding our lead character (the entire third act is a bit iffy).

With that said, SICARIO employs high stakes that effectively utilize the tools of cinema, and does so in a way that admirably and provocatively explores the conflict between morality and serviceability.