Writer and director Ryan Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan have teamed up again with their latest film, a vampire thriller called “Sinners.” Here are five (spoiler-free) reasons to see this movie now, and probably again and again.
#1: The dynamic duo
Jordan and Coogler have proven themselves as a top-tier creative duo. Their filmography together includes “Fruitvale Station,” “Creed” and both “Black Panther” films. These two make magic when they’re together.
In “Sinners,” Coogler has outdone himself as a director, raising the bar he set in his previous work. And Jordan effortlessly plays a pair of ne’er-do-well twins known as Smoke and Stack, whose bond and banter keep you on the edge of your seat.
Alongside Jordan, the film features an enchanting performance from Wunmi Mosaku (“Lovecraft Country”) as Annie and a career-shifting role from Hailee Steinfeld (“The Marvels”). The unstoppable Delroy Lindo (“Malcolm X”) brings much-needed levity to the story and newcomer Miles Caton feels like a brilliant discovery. He holds his own in a cast full of heavy hitters with his portrayal of musician Sammie Moore.
#2: The vampires
If you love a good vampire movie, this one does not disappoint. These vampires have all the lore and mythology you would expect, with some hoodoo on the side. The vampires in “Sinners” may also represent some of the predatory practices seen in American history, but you didn’t hear that from me. Let’s talk after you’ve seen the movie.
For horror fans, there are plenty of thrills and chills. Be prepared to jump out of your seat. And for anyone else who thinks the people in the movie can hear me, you will have a chance to tell the characters to “Run!”
#3: The music
“Sinners” acknowledges music’s power and lasting influence, specifically Black American music. Without giving too much away, music plays a significant role in the film mirroring its role in our lives – from lullabies, hymns and celebrations, to foreboding melodies warning of dangers to come.
Blues fans will be delighted by some of the songs and cameos in the film. And the connection is drawn between the blues and later forms of Black American music. The beat changes, but the soul remains.
#4: The cinematography
“Sinners” is a beautiful movie with rich colors and incredible visuals. Instead of using digital cameras, Coogler captured the movie on film, inspired by his experiences of watching movies as a child.
Coogler said it’s best to see the movie on IMAX to get the full experience. Hoosiers are in luck because the IMAX at the Indiana State Museum is one of only 10 theaters in the world showing the movie in a format called the 15 perf projection, a specialized format ideal for watching “Sinners.” I highly recommend you act fast to catch it in IMAX.
#5: The culture
Black American culture and history are deeply woven into this film. Set in Mississippi in the 1930s, the film expertly weaves stories of sharecropping, bootlegging, lynching, the Great Migration and the determination of people who never stopped trying to build a life for themselves in the face of every obstacle.
“Sinners,” which has the makings of an instant classic, is in theaters now. With so many streaming options, this is a great reason to grab your popcorn and make your way back to a theater. Don’t forget to stay in your seat for the mid-credit and end-credit scenes.
As soon as I left my seat, I was ready to buy a ticket to see it again. So, I’ll be seeing you at the movies.
Contact Editor-in-chief Camike Jones at 317-762-7850 or camikej@indyrecorder.com.
Camike Jones is the Editor-in-Chief of the Indianapolis Recorder. Born and raised in Indianapolis, Jones has a lifelong commitment to advocacy and telling stories that represent the community.
