12 Sicario 2 Insights That Enhance Viewing

The sequel to the critically acclaimed film Sicario, titled Sicario: Day of the Soldado, delves deeper into the complex world of border politics and the war on drugs. Directed by Stefano Sollima and written by Taylor Sheridan, the movie follows the story of Alejandro Gillick, a former Mexican prosecutor turned black ops specialist, and Matt Graver, a CIA operative. To enhance the viewing experience of this gripping thriller, here are 12 insights that provide a deeper understanding of the film's themes, characters, and production.

Understanding the Title: Day of the Soldado

The title “Day of the Soldado” translates to “Day of the Soldier” in English, which reflects the film’s focus on the soldiers involved in the war on drugs. This title change from the original Sicario, which means “hitman” in Spanish, signifies a shift in perspective from the individual assassin to the broader conflict. The title choice highlights the escalation of violence and the involvement of various factions in the drug war. The film’s title is also a reference to the Mexican holiday “Día del Soldado,” which honors the country’s soldiers, adding another layer of depth to the narrative.

The Real-World Context of the US-Mexico Border

The film is set against the backdrop of the US-Mexico border, where the drug war has been raging for decades. Cartels, or Mexican drug trafficking organizations, have been a major factor in the violence and instability in the region. The movie portrays the complexities of the border and the various stakeholders involved, including the US government, the Mexican military, and the cartels. To understand the film’s context, it is essential to be aware of the real-world issues surrounding the border, such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and corruption.

The characters in the film are complex and multi-dimensional, with each having their own motivations and backstories. Alejandro Gillick, played by Benicio del Toro, is a former Mexican prosecutor turned black ops specialist, driven by a personal vendetta against the cartels. Matt Graver, played by Josh Brolin, is a CIA operative who recruits Alejandro for the mission. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their characters' interactions are a highlight of the film. The supporting cast, including Catherine Keener and Jeffrey Donovan, adds depth to the story and explores the moral gray areas of the characters.

The Themes of Sicario: Day of the Soldado

The film explores several themes, including the war on drugs, border politics, and the morality of violence. The movie raises questions about the effectiveness of the war on drugs and the consequences of involving the military in the conflict. The characters’ actions and decisions are driven by a desire to protect their countries and interests, but they are also forced to confront the moral implications of their actions. Moral ambiguity is a recurring theme throughout the film, as the characters navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries between the various factions.

The Impact of the Film’s Violence

Sicario: Day of the Soldado features intense and graphic violence, which has sparked debate among critics and audiences. The film’s portrayal of violence is realistic and unflinching, reflecting the brutal nature of the drug war. The violence is not gratuitous, but rather serves to illustrate the consequences of the characters’ actions and the harsh realities of the conflict. The film’s use of violence also raises questions about the desensitization of violence in media and the impact it has on audiences.

The film's production was marked by controversy, with the original director, Denis Villeneuve, dropping out of the project due to scheduling conflicts. Stefano Sollima took over as director, bringing his own vision to the film. The movie was shot on location in Mexico and the US, with a focus on practical effects and realistic action sequences. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the harsh beauty of the desert landscapes and the intensity of the action scenes.

The Reception and Legacy of Sicario: Day of the Soldado

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising the performances, direction, and themes. However, some critics felt that the movie did not live up to the standard set by the original Sicario. The film’s box office performance was solid, but not spectacular, grossing over $50 million worldwide. Despite this, the movie has developed a loyal fan base and is widely regarded as a thought-provoking and intense thriller.

The Future of the Sicario Franchise

The success of Sicario: Day of the Soldado has led to speculation about a potential third installment in the franchise. Taylor Sheridan has expressed interest in continuing the story, exploring the characters and themes in more depth. The future of the franchise is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the world of Sicario is complex and multifaceted, offering a rich source of material for further exploration.