“Sicario,” directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Taylor Sheridan, is a masterful crime thriller that takes viewers on a dark journey into the world of drug cartels and law enforcement. One of the film’s strengths lies in its authentic and immersive setting. But where exactly was “Sicario” filmed? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the locations that brought this intense story to life.
New Mexico, USA: While the film’s story is primarily set along the U.S.-Mexico border, “Sicario” was primarily filmed in and around Albuquerque, New Mexico. The city and its surrounding landscapes provided a versatile backdrop for various key scenes.
Albuquerque: The city of Albuquerque played a significant role in the film, serving as a setting for several pivotal scenes. Its urban areas and distinctive southwestern architecture added depth to the storyline.
Rio Grande: The Rio Grande, a majestic river that forms a natural border between the United States and Mexico, features prominently in “Sicario.” Filming along the river’s banks captured the film’s sense of place and added to its realism.
Bernalillo County: The expansive and diverse landscapes of Bernalillo County, which includes Albuquerque, offered a range of settings for the film. From dusty deserts to suburban neighborhoods, this region played a crucial role in capturing the film’s atmosphere.
Sunland Park, New Mexico: Some scenes were also filmed in the town of Sunland Park, which is located near the Mexican border. The border crossing sequences and the tense moments that take place in this area were authentically portrayed in Sunland Park.
Why New Mexico?
You might wonder why the filmmakers chose New Mexico as the primary filming location for a story set along the U.S.-Mexico border. New Mexico’s unique geography, diverse landscapes, and cinematic appeal have made it a favorite choice for filmmakers. Its proximity to Hollywood, its skilled local film industry workforce, and its financial incentives for filmmakers all contributed to the decision to film “Sicario” in the Land of Enchantment.
Final Thoughts
The choice of filming locations in “Sicario” adds a layer of authenticity and intensity to the film. The rugged beauty of the New Mexico landscapes and the urban grit of Albuquerque provide a fitting backdrop for the morally complex and high-stakes narrative. For movie enthusiasts and travelers alike, exploring the cinematic landscapes of “Sicario” in New Mexico can be an intriguing adventure, offering a deeper connection to the world of this gripping crime thriller.