The Evolution of Film and the Tense Thriller 'Sicario' Explained

TLDRIn this episode of Vice talks film, actor Benicio Del Toro discusses the morally complex thriller 'Sicario' and its reception at the Cannes Film Festival. He also shares his experience working with director Denis Villeneuve and the challenges of playing a character driven by revenge. Del Toro emphasizes the importance of realism in the film and the need for more diverse storytelling in Hollywood.

Key insights

💥The film 'Sicario' received a seven-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, which was a pleasant surprise for the cast and crew.

🔥Actor Benicio Del Toro was attracted to the script and the opportunity to play a morally complex character driven by revenge.

🎬Director Denis Villeneuve took a risk by switching the point of view in the third act of the film, which paid off and added to the tension.

🌎While 'Sicario' is a fictional thriller, it touches on the realism of America's use of violence outside its borders.

🌟Benicio Del Toro believes there should be more opportunities for diverse groups, such as Latinos, in Hollywood.

Q&A

How did 'Sicario' receive a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival?

The film 'Sicario' received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, which was a pleasant surprise for the cast and crew. The French audience, while not as effusive as others, showed their involvement and appreciation for the film.

Why did Benicio Del Toro choose to work on 'Sicario'?

Benicio Del Toro was attracted to the script of 'Sicario' and the opportunity to play a morally complex character driven by revenge. He also had a positive experience working with director Denis Villeneuve and admired his vision for the film.

What was the biggest challenge in playing Alejandro in 'Sicario'?

The biggest challenge in playing Alejandro in 'Sicario' was portraying a character who follows a straight line but keeping the audience away from knowing exactly what he will do. Del Toro wanted to build suspense and keep the audience guessing about his character's actions.

Is 'Sicario' a political film about America's use of violence outside its borders?

'Sicario' is a thriller and fiction, not a political film. However, it touches on the realism of America's use of violence outside its borders. The film raises questions about the complexities of the drug wars and the impact on different characters involved.

What are Benicio Del Toro's thoughts on diversity in Hollywood?

Benicio Del Toro believes there should be more opportunities for diverse groups, such as Latinos, in Hollywood. While progress is being made, he acknowledges that there is still work to be done to ensure more diverse storytelling and representation on screen.

Timestamped Summary

01:19The film 'Sicario' received a seven-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, which was a pleasant surprise for the cast and crew.

03:26Benicio Del Toro was attracted to the script of 'Sicario' and the opportunity to play a morally complex character driven by revenge.

09:31The biggest challenge in playing Alejandro in 'Sicario' was portraying a character who follows a straight line but keeping the audience away from knowing exactly what he will do.

13:15'Sicario' is a thriller and fiction, not a political film. However, it touches on the realism of America's use of violence outside its borders.

16:04Benicio Del Toro believes there should be more opportunities for diverse groups, such as Latinos, in Hollywood.