Taylor Sheridan's gritty 2015 thriller Sicario is making waves on streaming again, and it's all thanks to the recent buzz about a third installment. The film, which cost a modest $30 million to produce, has found a new audience on HBO Max, climbing into the platform's global top 10. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Sheridan's storytelling and Denis Villeneuve's masterful direction.
For those who missed it the first time around, Sicario follows an idealistic FBI agent (Emily Blunt) who is enlisted by a government task force to take down a Mexican drug cartel. The mission, led by a mysterious operative (Josh Brolin) and his enigmatic partner (Benicio del Toro), quickly spirals into a moral quagmire. The film is a tense, atmospheric thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Why the Sequel Announcement Reignited Interest
Last week, news broke that the original trio—Blunt, Brolin, and del Toro—would reunite for a third Sicario film. However, Sheridan, who wrote the first two movies, will not be involved this time. Instead, Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) is penning the script, and Padraic McKinley is set to direct. While some fans are disappointed by Sheridan's absence, the announcement has clearly sparked a renewed interest in the franchise, prompting many to revisit the original.
Sheridan, of course, is best known for creating Yellowstone and its many spinoffs, but his film work has always been a critical darling. Sicario is often cited as one of the best thrillers of the 2010s, and it's easy to see why. The film's unflinching look at the drug war, combined with Villeneuve's signature visual style, makes for a gripping watch.
Where to Stream Sicario
If you're looking to catch up before the sequel arrives, Sicario is currently streaming exclusively on HBO Max in the U.S. There's no word yet on when it might leave the platform, so now is the perfect time to dive in. The 2018 sequel, Sicario: Day of the Soldado, is also available on the service, directed by Stefano Sollima and starring Brolin and del Toro.
For those who prefer their thrillers with a psychological edge, you might also want to check out our list of the most flawless psychological thrillers since 2010. And if you're in the mood for another crime thriller on HBO Max this October, Matt Damon's The Departed is a solid choice.
As for Sheridan, he's keeping busy with a slate of upcoming projects, including the fourth season of Tulsa King, which premieres soon, and the delayed third season of Landman, now expected in 2027. While his involvement in Sicario 3 may be over, his influence on the genre is undeniable.
So, whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, now is the perfect time to experience Sicario in all its tense, gritty glory. Stream it on HBO Max and see why it remains a standout in the thriller genre.
