Director: Stefano Sollima
Starring: Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, Isabela Moner
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Release Date: June 29, 2018
Plot Summary: Sicario: Day of the Soldado is a gripping sequel to the 2015 thriller Sicario. The film continues to explore the grim and complex world of drug cartels and the ethical dilemmas faced by those fighting the drug war. The story follows the return of two key characters—Alejandro Gillick and Matt Graver—as they confront new challenges in their relentless battle against drug trafficking.
Key Plot Points:
- Escalation of the Drug War: The film opens with the escalation of the drug war between the U.S. and Mexico. When drug cartels begin trafficking terrorists across the border, the U.S. government decides to take drastic measures.
- Alejandro’s Mission: Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) is recruited by Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) to undertake a covert mission that involves kidnapping the daughter of a drug lord to incite chaos among the cartels.
- Ethical Dilemmas: As the operation unfolds, Alejandro and Matt are faced with morally ambiguous choices and violent encounters. The lines between right and wrong blur as they confront the harsh realities of their mission.
- Isabela Moner’s Role: Isabela Moner plays Isabel Reyes, the drug lord’s daughter, who becomes a central figure in the mission. Her role brings additional tension and emotional depth to the narrative.
- Unraveling Consequences: The mission’s unexpected consequences lead to escalating violence and chaos, affecting everyone involved in unforeseen ways.
- High-Stakes Action Sequences: Rapid cuts and thrilling action scenes, showcasing the film’s adrenaline-pumping moments.
- Moral Ambiguity: Scenes that highlight the ethical challenges faced by the characters, emphasizing the film’s darker and more complex themes.
- Benicio del Toro’s Intensity: Powerful glimpses of Benicio del Toro’s commanding presence as Alejandro, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
- Border Tensions: Scenes depicting the fraught and dangerous nature of the border conflict, enhancing the film’s suspense.
Trailer Highlights:
The official trailer for Sicario: Day of the Soldado is intense and action-packed, featuring:
Reception:
Sicario: Day of the Soldado received generally positive reviews for its intense action and strong performances, particularly from Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin. Critics praised the film’s ability to maintain the tension and gritty realism of the original while expanding on its themes. The sequel was noted for its darker tone and morally complex storyline, although some felt it did not reach the same heights as its predecessor. The film’s exploration of the ongoing drug war and its impact on those involved made it a compelling, if grim, continuation of the Sicario saga.
Conclusion: Sicario: Day of the Soldado is a gripping and intense follow-up that delves deeper into the complex world of drug cartels and government operations. With its powerful performances and unflinching portrayal of moral ambiguity, the film offers a compelling and thought-provoking experience for fans of the original and newcomers alike.
