Anytime you have the prolific Roger Deakins on set and powerful performances on screen, it is hard not to have a good film. Dennis Villeneuve's new masterpiece Sicario is, however, better than good. This action packed gripping crime drama that features Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, and Benecio Del Toro is exceptional across the board and potentially has some oscar nominations coming its way. It is really no wonder why the film got a reportedly seven minute standing ovation at its premiere two nights ago. Blunt's lead performance as a distraught FBI officer, morally skeptical of some techniques used in their missions to overhaul the Mexican cartel is a powerful one. Del Toro isn't overshadowed either as his enigmatic character leaves the audience guessing throughout the film. 

Roger Deakin's truly outdid himself though with his cinematography. Having worked with Villeneuve before (though usually with the Jury co-presidents, the Coen brothers) two years ago in Prisoners, a similar ominous feel is portrayed in their most recent collaboration with breathtaking shots of Mexico and of the cast. One in particular that is a personal all-time favorite (not an exageration) is a fifteen second shot of the silhouettes of soliders as they quietly infiltrate an immigrant tunnel under the deep purprle sunet with an looming cloud above them. 

Often overlooked as well is the score of films, this one done by Johann Johannsson (The Theory of Everything) which perfectly combined an intense composition that worked completely in sync with what is on the screen. The power of the songs made the suspension of the film that much more compelling and really would not be the same without it. The films title means "Hitman" in Mexico will open in theatres in the U.S. on September 18th and will surely be received well - this one is a can't miss. 

By: James Cullen