In a bold cinematic venture, Ryan Coogler's latest film, Sinners, intertwines the supernatural with the rich tapestry of Black culture, set against the backdrop of 1932 Clarksdale, Mississippi. The film, which features Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, explores themes of sacrifice and the cost of artistic expression, drawing on the Faustian legend that suggests nothing comes without a price.
The narrative begins with the return of Smoke and Stack from Chicago, where they were likely involved in illicit activities. Flush with cash and ambition, the brothers aim to establish a juke joint, a vibrant hub for music and community. They purchase an old sawmill from a dubious white seller and enlist the help of their cousin Sammie, played by newcomer Miles Caton, along with the seasoned bluesman Delta Slim (Delroy Lindo) and Annie (Wunmi Mosaku), a Hoodoo conjurer. Their excitement is palpable as they rush to prepare for an opening night that promises to be unforgettable.
However, the juke joint's allure soon attracts the attention of a trio of vampires led by Remmick (Jack O'Connell), who represent the predatory forces that seek to exploit Black artistry. The film serves as a metaphor for the ways in which Black culture has been co-opted by mainstream society, with the vampires symbolizing the insatiable thirst of those who wish to leech off the creativity and vitality of Black individuals.
Coogler, known for his previous collaborations with Jordan on Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther, has crafted a narrative that is both complex and engaging. According to NPR, the film is a "gorgeous and complex thrill ride that demands to be taken in on a giant screen with an enthusiastic crowd." The production design by Hannah Beachler, who won an Oscar for her work on Black Panther, adds depth and authenticity to the film's setting.
Critics have praised Jordan's performance, noting that he is at his best in this film. Coogler remarked, "It was a role that I thought only Michael could do. It was an opportunity for us to jump off this creative cliff together and take some real risks." Jordan himself differentiated between his two characters, explaining, "Smoke has this real heaviness to him, he’s a man of few words. Stack is a lot lighter, he smiles through his pain, he’s always on the move." His ability to embody both characters was so convincing that co-star Wunmi Mosaku could identify which twin he was portraying even from behind.
The film's reception has been overwhelmingly positive, boasting a 97 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Richard Lawson of Vanity Fair described Sinners as "propulsive and stirring entertainment, messy but always compelling," while Manohla Dargis of the New York Times referred to it as a "big-screen exultation — a passionate, effusive praise song about life and love, including the love of movies."
In a recent interview, Coogler revealed some behind-the-scenes challenges, including an emergency meeting called due to Jordan's discomfort with the film's extensive use of fake blood. Jordan humorously noted, "I liked the fangs. Fangs were dope. The blood was a bit messy and uncomfortable at times. The blood was a lot." Coogler recounted how his wife, Zinzi, informed him about Jordan's aversion to the blood, prompting the meeting to ensure the actor's comfort on set. Jordan clarified that he was merely venting and appreciated the concern shown by the production team.
As Sinners hits theaters, audiences are encouraged to reflect on the deeper themes woven throughout the film. It not only serves as a thrilling supernatural experience but also as a commentary on the struggles and sacrifices faced by Black artists in a society that often seeks to exploit their talents. Coogler's exploration of these themes resonates powerfully, illustrating the complexities of navigating success and authenticity in the entertainment industry.
Ultimately, Sinners stands as a testament to Coogler's growth as a filmmaker and Jordan's prowess as an actor. The film's unique blend of horror, music, and cultural commentary marks a significant entry in both their filmographies. As audiences flock to theaters, they will find themselves immersed in a world where the stakes are high, and every moment is a negotiation with the forces that seek to control and commodify creativity.
