American Sicario
Performance & Direction: American Sicario Review
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is American Sicario (2021) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and American Sicario features a noteworthy lineup led by Philippe A. Haddad . Supported by the likes of Danny Trejo and Cali Morales , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: American Sicario
Quick Plot Summary: American Sicario is a Crime, Action film that dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. The story of the rise and fall of the first American-born drug lord in Mexico, this tale of power, money, greed and betrayal amongst rival members of the drug cartels finds American gangster Erik Vasquez scheming to become the top dog in the Mexican underworld, only to find himself making enemies out of both the powerful cartels and his own allies. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: American Sicario
Ending Breakdown: American Sicario attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of American Sicario reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
American Sicario Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
American Sicario incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, action film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: American Sicario adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch American Sicario?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: American Sicario
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Where to Watch American Sicario Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeAmerican Sicario Parents Guide & Age Rating
2021 AdvisoryWondering about American Sicario age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of American Sicario is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, American Sicario is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2021 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Sicario worth watching?
American Sicario is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find American Sicario parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for American Sicario identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of American Sicario?
The total duration of American Sicario is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.