Taylor Sheridan’s Early Work ‘Sicario’ Outshines Yellowstone Success

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Taylor Sheridan, the prolific creator behind the hit series “Yellowstone,” has built a television empire with Paramount+, but his 2015 film “Sicario” remains the crown jewel of his career. The crime thriller, directed by Denis Villeneuve, continues to overshadow Sheridan’s later work, despite the massive success of his neo-Western franchise.

“Sicario,” starring Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, and Benicio Del Toro, was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The film, which follows an FBI agent embroiled in the escalating drug war on the U.S.-Mexico border, earned three Oscar nominations and cemented Sheridan’s reputation as a masterful screenwriter. Its 2018 sequel, “Sicario: Day of the Soldado,” failed to replicate the original’s acclaim, further highlighting the unique brilliance of the first film.

Sheridan’s transition from acting to writing began after his recurring role on “Sons of Anarchy.” Frustrated by low pay and limited opportunities, he shifted his focus to screenwriting, selling his first script, “Mayor of Kingstown,” in 2011. This marked the beginning of his rise as one of Hollywood’s most sought-after creators.

Despite the success of “Yellowstone” and its spinoffs like “1923” and “Tulsa King,” critics argue that Sheridan’s recent work lacks the depth and originality of “Sicario.” Shows like “Landman,” starring Billy Bob Thornton, have been criticized for repetitive character archetypes and dramatic stakes reminiscent of “Yellowstone.”

Sheridan’s ability to produce multiple high-budget series annually has made him a cornerstone of Paramount+’s strategy to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and Hulu. However, the rapid pace of production has raised concerns about quality control. “The issue of quantity over quality is becoming apparent,” one critic noted.

Fans of Sheridan’s earlier work are hopeful for a return to form with the potential third installment of the “Sicario” franchise. While Denis Villeneuve is currently focused on the “Dune” series, the prospect of a reunion with Sheridan has sparked excitement. “If both parties are interested, it could be an excellent film,” said a source close to the project.

Sheridan’s journey from struggling actor to television mogul is a testament to his resilience and talent. Yet, as his catalog of shows continues to expand, “Sicario” remains a reminder of what he is capable of when given the time and resources to craft a singular, compelling story.