What is sicario?

Sicario (2015) - A Grim Look at the War on Drugs

Sicario is a 2015 American action thriller film directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Taylor Sheridan. The film stars Emily Blunt, Benicio del Toro, and Josh Brolin. The title, Sicario, is a Spanish word meaning "hitman" or "assassin."

The plot follows Kate Macer (Emily Blunt), an idealistic FBI agent, who is recruited by a government task force led by Matt Graver (Josh Brolin), an operative who seems to operate outside the law, and the enigmatic Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro), a former prosecutor seeking revenge. Their mission is to escalate the war against drug cartels operating along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The film explores the moral ambiguities and brutal realities of the War on Drugs, showcasing the often-unethical methods employed by the U.S. government in its fight against organized crime. As Kate delves deeper into the operation, she becomes increasingly disillusioned with the tactics used and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Key themes explored include:

• Moral ambiguity: The film questions the righteousness of fighting crime with more crime, prompting viewers to consider the ethical compromises made in the name of national security.
• Loss of innocence: Kate's initial idealism is shattered as she witnesses the violence and corruption firsthand, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of the world.
• Revenge: Alejandro's personal vendetta against the Cartel fuels his ruthless actions and challenges Kate's understanding of justice.
• The brutality of the drug war: Sicario doesn't shy away from depicting the graphic violence and dehumanizing effects of the Drug%20Trade.

Sicario was praised for its intense atmosphere, stunning cinematography by Roger Deakins, and strong performances from the cast. It received several award nominations, including a Best Cinematography nomination at the Academy Awards.