What's Happening?
Actor Josh Brolin has confirmed that a third film in Taylor Sheridan’s 'Sicario' franchise is moving forward and production will begin soon. Brolin, who stars as CIA agent Matt Graver, revealed the news
to ScreenRant, ending a decade of speculation about the sequel. The original 2015 film, 'Sicario,' launched Sheridan's Hollywood career, followed by his Oscar-nominated 'Hell or High Water' in 2016 and the hit series 'Yellowstone' in 2018. The second film, 'Sicario: Day of the Soldado,' released in 2018, saw Brolin and Benicio del Toro reprise their roles. While Brolin has confirmed the film's imminence, no director or additional cast members have been announced for the upcoming installment, nor has it been confirmed if Sheridan will return to write the script. The first film was directed by Denis Villeneuve, and the second by Stefano Sollima, who previously stated his intention for the films to be an anthology series with core actors in the same world.
Why It's Important?
The confirmation of a third 'Sicario' film is significant for fans of the gritty crime thriller genre and for the continued expansion of Taylor Sheridan's influence in Hollywood. Sheridan's unique storytelling, often focusing on morally ambiguous characters and intense narratives set in the American West or along its borders, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following. The 'Sicario' franchise, known for its brutal realism and exploration of the U.S.-Mexico border conflict and drug cartels, offers a distinct perspective on national security and law enforcement issues. The return of Josh Brolin's character, Matt Graver, a CIA agent leading a task force against Mexican cartels, suggests a continuation of these themes. This development could further solidify Sheridan's reputation as a major creative force in film and television, potentially attracting more high-caliber talent to his projects and influencing the types of stories greenlit by studios.
What's Next?
With Josh Brolin's confirmation, the next steps will likely involve official announcements regarding the director, full cast, and the commencement of principal photography. The absence of a confirmed director or writer for the third installment, particularly whether Taylor Sheridan will pen the script, leaves key creative decisions pending. Stakeholders, including fans and industry observers, will be keenly watching for these announcements, as they will shape the tone and direction of the new film. The success of the previous films, both critically and commercially, will place expectations on this sequel to maintain the franchise's high standards of intense action and complex narrative. The production timeline will also be a point of interest, as Brolin indicated filming would begin 'soon.'
Beyond the Headlines
The 'Sicario' franchise delves into the complex and often dark realities of the U.S.-Mexico border, touching upon themes of national security, the war on drugs, and the ethical compromises made in the pursuit of justice. The films explore the blurred lines between right and wrong, and the psychological toll on those involved in these high-stakes operations. The return to this narrative universe could offer a timely commentary on evolving geopolitical dynamics and the ongoing challenges faced by border communities and law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the anthology approach, as previously mentioned by director Stefano Sollima, suggests a potential for diverse perspectives within the same overarching world, allowing for exploration of different facets of the conflict without being strictly bound by a linear plot. This could lead to a more nuanced and expansive cinematic universe that reflects the multifaceted nature of these issues.
