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The true value in this must see coming of age story is found in its gritty, authentic story line, cinematography and acting done by sensational casting. Robert De Niro and Chazz Palminteri reach deep down and bring to life the core essence of that internal struggle of direction faced by many youth when told to just do the right thing but never told what the right thing is.

Growing up poor with parents that make an honest living, Colagero (C) tries to understand his father's life lessons but can't contain his ever increasing curiosity and reverence for the local thugs. After C witnesses a crime and responses to it the way the streets taught him, the neighborhood enforcer (Sunny) takes Colagero under his wing to teach a few life lessons of his own. The methods of each role model may be different but the message is the same.. There are consequences for compromising on integrity and values.

For C this fact is something that isn't easily understood without living it first hand. He struggles to balance the only 2 futures presented a neighborhood boy growing up in the Bronx which are a safe mundane pseudo existence or an exciting fast paced lifestyle of money, power and respect.

Sicario gives a first person account of FBI agent Kate Macy who although no stranger to the cruelty cause by the Mexican Cartel, is seemingly put over her head in a new assignment. With the support of superb cinematography there brings out a sense of loneliness and self reliance as Kate attempts to figure out her role and the end game scenario being worked out by the US bureaucrats.

Director Denis Villeneuve gives a methodical crime thriller with a generous helping of suspense. Married to a constant stream of questions and mind wondering theories were surreal scenes of brutality coupled by imagery only observed when in deep thought. This style of cinematography created emotions of loneliness and self reliance as fears mounted towards how Kate was being used.

A stellar performance by Benisio Del Toro playing the roll of a dauntless Alejandro further added to the films mystery. Born out of a world where human lives are worth more dead because they make a stronger statement, Alejandro seeks revenge against the cartel with the US government at his disposal.

The questions to Kate's involvement become answered in a very matter of fact manner. Instead of keeping the level of suspense and concern for her safety the story drops the ball and although tries, can't quite grasp it as it bounces away. It was disappointing after being brought down the rabbit hole with Kate only to discover her roll was technical and minimally subversive. In an era of film making history where antiheroes are the new champions, this movie may have missed its opportunity for greatness by not basing the story more around Alejandro from start to finish.

It's doubtful that even the B level talent would have put their names on this if they were allowed to sample the cgi beforehand. Fortunately there are only a handful of creatures to endure that unintentionally provide this film's only comic relief. There was a total lack of effort put into involving the viewer in any aspect of character or story development. Labeled as "Made for TV" doesn't absolve this movie for desecrating Jules Verne's name and vision..

To get through this film.. Image that it was produced in a 1950's black and white style picture and change all the cgi creatures to a paper mache equivalent. This will make all the awkward "horrified" expressions and poor camera cuts easier to accept. Be sure to watch the preview before investing any time into starting this show.