Taylor Sheridan's Divisive Sicario Sequel Finds New Life on Netflix Charts

Background and Divergence

Following the critical acclaim of Denis Villeneuve's 2015 masterpiece *Sicario*, the sequel *Day of the Soldado* took a different path. With Stefano Sollima directing and Taylor Sheridan returning as writer, the film maintains the grim tone but shifts focus entirely onto the ruthless operatives Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) and Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro). The plot sees them tasked with inciting a war between Mexican drug cartels by kidnapping a kingpin's daughter (Isabela Moner), leading to predictably violent and morally complex consequences.

Reception and Streaming Revival

While the original *Sicario* boasts a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes, *Day of the Soldado* landed with a more polarizing 62%. Critics noted its stylish action but found it less nuanced than its predecessor. However, audience scores are closer (68%), and online discourse reveals a dedicated fanbase, with some viewers preferring the sequel's relentless pace and focus on Brolin and del Toro. Its recent arrival on Netflix has tapped into this fanbase and introduced it to a new audience, evidenced by its strong chart performance against contemporary releases.

The Future: Sicario 3?

Fans have clamored for *Sicario 3* for years. Producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee (Thunder Road Films) have confirmed their desire to make a third film, ideally reuniting the core actors, but emphasize the need for a compelling storyline that justifies another chapter. Sheridan's packed schedule creating the ever-expanding *Yellowstone* universe also presents a challenge. However, the strong performance of *Day of the Soldado* on Netflix could provide the necessary momentum to move *Sicario: Capos* forward.

What is Sicario: Day of the Soldado about?

US operatives Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) and Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) deliberately escalate conflicts between Mexican drug cartels by kidnapping a drug lord's daughter, but the mission spirals out of control.

Is Sicario: Day of the Soldado related to Yellowstone?

It shares the same writer, Taylor Sheridan, known for his gritty, character-driven style seen in both *Sicario* films and the *Yellowstone* series, but the stories are unrelated.

Is Sicario: Day of the Soldado better than the first film?

Critical consensus favors the original *Sicario* (2015) directed by Denis Villeneuve. However, *Day of the Soldado* has its own following, with some viewers preferring its focused action and storyline. Reception is generally more divided than for the first film.

Will there be a Sicario 3?

Producers are keen to make a third film, potentially titled *Sicario: Capos*, and hope to bring back key actors. Finding the right story and navigating Taylor Sheridan's schedule are the main hurdles.

Did you prefer the original *Sicario* or *Day of the Soldado*? What would you want to see in a potential *Sicario 3*? Let us know your thoughts!

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