SINNERS

When mainstream filmmakers transcend their craft to or from horror, unique and unusual art is realized. Jonathan Deme had Silence of the Lambs, Katherine Bigelow brought audiences Near Dark, and Tony Scott released The Hunger. Black Panther and Fruitvale Station writer and director Ryan Coogler gives credit to Tarantino, DePalma, Carpenter, Wes Craven, David Lynch, and Spike Lee as influences according to a letter he penned that was shared with press for the release of Sinners. 

It would be a grave mistake to pigeonhole this film into any particular category. Sinners goes beyond any fatigued tropes that other movies in the genre depend on to thrill audiences. Coogler's North American mythological folktale rivals the intensity of other western fairy-tales. In this story, twin veteran warriors steal from, escape, and fool two adversaries (The Italian and Irish mobs). They return to their home town, Clarksdale Mississipi, to facilitate a Juke Joint (a secular space used for African-Americas to socialize and enjoy song and dance). They include cousin Sammie with his supernatural guitar playing and local familiars with vibrant personalities. Unfortunately the sanctuary they create from the Klan has had a dark force infiltrate. 

Multiple viewings are suggested as there are many nuances that might be missed at first glance. There is no doubt Coogler's success with Sinners is in part due to his previous blockbuster mainstream hits, but the film's passing of the $200 million domestic gross mark in only it's fourth week is a testament to it's engrossing story. A surprise addition to the cast was a brief but powerful performance from Saul Williams, one time Nine Inch Nails member. Williams helped set the tone at the start of the film and guides us to closure at the end. 

Director: Ryan Coogler

Writer: Ryan Coogler

Cinematography: Autumn Durald Arkapaw

Music: Ludwig Göransson

Studio: Warner Bros Pictures 

US Release Date: April 18, 2025

DAVID CHRISTIAN - MAY 12, 2025