Brolin Links Whalefall's Emotional Core to Sicario 3's Delayed Launch
Josh Brolin is promoting his new film Whalefall, which he describes as a deeply personal exploration of father-son dynamics, while confirming that the long-delayed Sicario 3 is finally moving forward with a new script. Brolin also reflected on the cancellation of his TV series Outer Range, calling it a missed opportunity for the industry.
Key points
- Whalefall, directed by Brian Duffield, is now in theaters, with Brolin praising the emotional impact of the story on his own parenting and relationship with his father.
- Sicario 3 has finally secured a script from Steven Knight, with Brolin, Benicio del Toro, and Emily Blunt set to film next year under director Padraic McKinley.
- Brolin expressed regret over the cancellation of Outer Range, noting that the show's cast has since thrived, and he turned down the role of Hal Jordan in Lanterns, which went to Kyle Chandler.
- The production of Whalefall used Brolin's actual heartbeat to create the sound of the whale, a choice Brolin and Duffield intended to make the film feel more personal.
Background
The Sicario franchise has been in development for years, with the third installment previously stalled by the 2023 writers' strike. Brolin's TV series Outer Range was canceled after its second season in 2024, despite strong reviews. Whalefall is based on a novel by Daniel Kraus, who won the Pulitzer Prize for his subsequent book, Angel Down, in May 2026.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the personal and emotional connection Brolin has to the Whalefall story, linking it to his own experiences as a parent and son. Variety highlights the technical and creative choices made in Whalefall, such as using Brolin's heartbeat and physical appearance to inform the whale's design. Consequence of Sound focuses on Brolin's film recommendations, noting his love for 1970s cinema and that only one of his 74 recommended films features him. The outlets agree on the core facts but differ in their focus, with THR and Variety centering on Brolin's current projects and Consequence of Sound on his broader film tastes.
Why it matters
The news is significant because it marks the culmination of a long-delayed project in Sicario 3 and provides insight into Brolin's current professional and personal priorities. The cancellation of Outer Range and Brolin's decision to turn down Lanterns also highlight the challenges actors face in balancing high-profile projects with personal and professional satisfaction.
What to watch
Sicario 3 is expected to begin filming next year. Whalefall is currently in theaters, and Brolin is also set to appear in the third Dune film, which is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026.
- Josh Brolin Talks the Personal Side of ‘Whalefall’ and the “Undeniable” Script for ‘Sicario 3’ The Hollywood Reporter
- ‘Whalefall’ Director Brian Duffield on Using Josh Brolin’s Heartbeat For the Whale: ‘Make It Feel as Personal as Possible’ Variety
- Josh Brolin Has a List of 74 Movies You Need to See. He’s Only In One of Them Consequence of Sound
- Josh Brolin just gave us 45 movies he thinks every man should watch The Manual
- Josh Brolin Officially Teases James Bond Writer's "Incredible" Script for Taylor Sheridan Follow-Up Collider
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