Sinners Movie Review
by: James A. Barnes
Ryan Coogler’s Sinners is a mesmerizing fusion of Southern Gothic horror, blues-infused soul, and unflinching social commentary. Set in 1932 Mississippi, the film follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack—both portrayed with magnetic duality by Michael B. Jordan—as they return from Chicago to open a Black-owned juke joint. Their cousin, Sammie “Preacher Boy” Moore, played by newcomer Miles Caton, joins them in this endeavor. However, their aspirations are soon overshadowed by a sinister force: white vampire musicians led by the enigmatic Remmick, who seek to exploit Black culture under the guise of unity .
The duality of twin brothers Smoke and Stack, serves as a compelling exploration of the Black American experience during the Jim Crow era. Smoke embodies the disciplined, introspective path, seeking redemption and stability, while Stack represents the charismatic, risk-taking spirit, eager to seize opportunities despite the dangers. Their contrasting approaches highlight the complex choices faced by Black individuals striving for success and autonomy in a society fraught with systemic oppression. Jordan’s nuanced performances bring depth to both characters, capturing their individual struggles and shared bond, and underscoring the multifaceted nature of Black identity and resilience. This portrayal not only showcases Jordan’s exceptional range as an actor but also reinforces the film’s themes of duality, survival, and the pursuit of freedom amidst adversity.
Remmick, portrayed by Jack O’Connell, is a compelling antagonist whose Irish heritage adds a profound layer to the narrative. Initially, he appears to empathize with the oppression faced by Black Americans, drawing parallels to Ireland’s own history of colonization. However, Remmick ultimately weaponizes his whiteness, becoming the very oppressor he once despised by imposing his vampiric way of life onto the Black community. This transformation serves as a poignant commentary on cultural assimilation and appropriation, highlighting how those who have suffered oppression can, in turn, perpetuate it when seeking power .
Music serves as both a sanctuary and a battleground in Sinners. The juke joint becomes a haven where characters express their truths and resist oppression through song. Ludwig Göransson’s score, a blend of blues, gospel, and folk, captures this spirit, with live performances that will deeply resonate with audiences teleporting them back
The film is visually stunning. Shot on 70mm, it bathes the screen in sultry reds and golds, evoking the heat and tension of the era. Coogler’s direction and Autumn Durald Arkapaw camera work ensures that every frame pulsates with purpose, weaving together themes of freedom, identity, and resistance.
Overall, Coogler delivers a bold, genre-defying narrative that challenges and captivates. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling that confronts history’s shadows while celebrating the enduring strength of Black culture.