SICARIO: DAY OF THE SOLDADO – Official Trailer (HD)

Sicario: Soldado, released in 2018 and directed by Stefano Sollima, is a sequel to the critically acclaimed Sicario (2015). While the first film, directed by Denis Villeneuve, focused on the complexities of the drug war from a law enforcement perspective, Soldado dives deeper into the murky ethics and moral dilemmas faced by those involved in the conflict. Featuring returning stars Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin, the film delivers a tense and gritty narrative that examines the escalating violence on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Plot Overview

The story picks up with Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) and Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) as they tackle a new threat posed by drug cartels. This time, the focus shifts to the cartels’ involvement in human trafficking, prompting the U.S. government to take a more aggressive stance. Matt Graver is authorized to wage war on the cartels, and he recruits Alejandro to help eliminate a key player within the drug trafficking network.

As their mission unfolds, the lines between right and wrong become increasingly blurred. The operation takes a dark turn when a young girl named Isabel Reyes (Isabela Moner) is caught in the crossfire. Alejandro, haunted by his past and driven by a sense of duty, faces a moral crisis as he must decide whether to protect Isabel or adhere to the brutal tactics required to accomplish their mission.

Themes and Style

Sicario: Soldado delves into themes of morality, loyalty, and the personal costs of war. It portrays the harsh realities of the drug trade and its devastating impact on both sides of the border. The film raises questions about the effectiveness of the U.S. government’s strategies in combating drug cartels and the ethical implications of their methods.

Visually, the film maintains the tense and atmospheric style established in the original Sicario, with cinematography by Dariusz Wolski that captures the stark contrast between the beauty of the landscapes and the violence of the drug war. The score, composed by Hildur Guðnadóttir, enhances the film’s suspenseful tone, further immersing the audience in the harrowing world of its characters.

Cast and Performances

Benicio del Toro delivers a powerful performance as Alejandro Gillick, embodying the character’s complexity and inner turmoil. Josh Brolin’s portrayal of Matt Graver is equally compelling, showcasing a blend of pragmatism and moral ambiguity as he navigates the treacherous landscape of the drug war. Isabela Moner brings depth to her role as Isabel, serving as a poignant representation of innocence lost amidst the chaos.

The supporting cast, including Jeffrey Donovan and Catherine Keener, further enriches the narrative, contributing to the film’s exploration of the various perspectives involved in the drug conflict.

Conclusion

Sicario: Soldado (2018) is a gripping and thought-provoking sequel that expands upon the themes of its predecessor while presenting a more intense and personal story. With its compelling performances, intense action sequences, and nuanced exploration of morality in the face of violence, the film stands as a powerful commentary on the complexities of the drug war. It challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities of a conflict that continues to impact lives on both sides of the border, making it a worthy addition to the Sicario franchise.