Finally, a well made, immersive and substantial thriller

Rating: 10/10 (11 October 2015)

I loved Indendies, Prisoners and Enemy so had high hopes for this - and thankfully it delivered more than expected. I've read a few user-reviews since and find that plenty of them spoil the experience of the film, so I would advise not to read too many. I've remained completely content free here in terms of story, character etc. Its best enjoyed going in blind, so you can share in the unknowingness of the central character (Emily Blunt).
With Sicario, Villeneuve (with the help of excellent DP Deakins and a very talented cast) creates an entirely immersive world. This alone makes the film extremely engaging, gripping and fascinating - you feel like you're there. The soundtrack creates a feeling of horror and dread, you don't know what's going to be happen, but you don't doubt that something horrible could happen at any moment. There aren't any distracting moments or gimmicks to pull you out of the immersion - no CGI, no directorial show-off moments, no side characters saying "that doesn't look good" etc that ruin tension in most thrillers. I realise that Villeneuve excels in this - he doesn't sell out to "please" or amuse the audience - he understands the integrity and depth of experience that comes with telling it straight and efficiently.
Sicario is a masterful and impactive film on every level. If you're cautious of going to theaters these days with all the let-downs, remakes and trashy nonsense, then Sicario won't disappoint - its a strong thriller of the highest calibre.