This is an engrossing look at the Mexican drug trade and how the U.S. either does or ‘should’ respond to it. We never quite know if the events are true, but it brings a chilling perspective to the issue. Emily Blunt is an FBI agent in Phoenix recruited, ostensibly for her expertise in Mexican hostage smuggling, into a super-secret group operating to curb cartel violence in Arizona. Much of the action takes place in Juarez, the notoriously violent border town. The cinematography is engrossing, as the film is shot in a hyper-realism that makes you feel like you are there, not merely an observer.
Blunt’s character, Kate, is shocked by the group’s unorthodox methods, but you’re left to wonder whether that’s what it takes to ‘win’ this war. The shady character of Alejandro, ‘a special prosecutor from Colombia,’ is brilliantly played by Benicio del Toro. CIA spook Matt Graver, the tactical leader, is portrayed by Josh Brolin. ‘Sicario,’ btw, means ‘hit man.’
Should You See It? Yes; it’s violent but mostly implied violence, where all you see is the aftermath of horrific events. —D.W.
Viewed at St. Louis Cinemas’ The Chase Park Plaza Cinema
