Sinners Is the Sexy, Soulful, Bloody Ride You’ve Been Waiting For

From the moment Sinners was announced, I knew I’d be there on opening night. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for vampire films—whether it’s From Dusk Till Dawn, Buffy the Vampire Slayer (both the film and the series), Interview with the Vampire (in all its iterations), or True Blood, you get the point—there’s something about the genre that’s captivated me for years. The mythology, the tension, the blend of horror and allure; it’s a perfect mix of intrigue. So when Sinners was teased, I knew it had to be something special.

Sinners Official Trailer 2

It wasn’t just the premise that drew me in—it was the meticulous vision behind it. When Ryan Coogler and Kodak outlined how Sinners was intended to be experienced, the level of care, craftsmanship, and passion infused into every element became unmistakably clear. Coogler emphasized that 70mm wasn’t merely a format—it was central to his artistic vision, a choice that underscored the immersive quality he wanted to create. This commitment to the medium was a decisive factor for me. The nearest theater showing the film in 70mm was 60 miles away at AMC Lincoln, and I didn’t hesitate for a second. I booked my ticket right away. When a filmmaker is this intentional with how they want their audience to engage with their work, it’s a call you can’t ignore. I knew there were others who felt the same—a community of viewers eager to witness this film exactly as it was meant to be. And let me tell you, that 60-mile drive was more than worth it.

Check out the video below to see Coogler explain the different Aspect Ratios for Sinners.

Aspect Ratios with Sinners Director Ryan Coogler

A Southern Gothic Dream

Sinners is a masterclass in visual storytelling—raw, gritty, and utterly breathtaking. Every frame feels deliberate, as if each shot could stand alone as a painting, with every shadow meticulously crafted to echo the film’s tension. The color grading is both warm and murky, evoking a sense of time and place while underscoring the characters' inner turmoil. The opening moments pull us directly into the heart of 1930s Southern America, immersing us in a world that feels as tactile as it is atmospheric.

One of the most striking early scenes introduces Remmick, a vampire on the run, hunted by Choctaw Native riders just before sunset. He’s taken refuge in a house, and the riders, aware of the danger, try to warn the unsuspecting couple inside. The riders offer a solemn prayer before riding off, a ritual that adds layers of foreboding. Above them, crows circle ominously, setting a tone that’s as haunting as it is cinematic. It’s a moment that showcases the film’s commitment to atmosphere—where every movement, every piece of sound and image is purposeful.

Meet the SmokeStack Twins

The twin brothers, Smoke and Stack, are quickly introduced, and Michael B. Jordan's performances are nothing short of revelatory. Where many twin portrayals fall into gimmicky or indistinguishable territory, Jordan’s work here is deeply nuanced. These aren’t just two roles—these are two fully realized, distinct human beings.

Smoke is brooding, erratic, and terrifying—his unpredictability is a palpable threat. Stack, by contrast, is smooth, calculated, and magnetic. He’s just as dangerous, but in a way that’s almost seductive. Even in silence, the characters are sharply delineated. Jordan’s dual performances are a study in contrasts and an exhibition of his immense talent, truly solidifying his place among the finest actors of his generation.

A Soulful, Bloody Ride

There’s one sequence—an unforgettable moment—that bridges the past and future through the profound legacy of Black music. Without giving it away, it’s a genre-defying, transformative experience that hits on both an emotional and cultural level. The choreography, camera movement, and sound design all work in harmony to create an experience that transcends the screen. It’s the kind of scene that doesn’t just entertain—it transforms. I can say with certainty that when you experience it, you won’t just be watching a film; you’ll be feeling it on a visceral level. My soul felt lifted as the entire moment unfolded before me.

And then there's the music. Ludwig Göransson’s score is nothing short of a masterstroke—it’s electric, hypnotic, and inseparable from the storytelling. The music isn’t just a backdrop; it’s woven into the very fabric of the narrative, guiding the emotions, tension, and rhythm of the film. At times, it demands a visceral response—whether that’s the urge to clap, dance, or even cry—often all at once. There’s a striking contrast between the electrifying music and the bloody horror unfolding on screen, and yet, it all feels seamless, enhancing the experience without overwhelming it. This score is as much a character as anyone else in the film, and it’s been on heavy rotation ever since.

The Rest of The Cast

In many films, standout female characters can feel like a rare find—often one strong woman at the forefront, while the rest fade into the background. Sinners defies this by giving us not one, but four complex, commanding female characters, each with their own narrative arcs and distinct personalities.

Wunmi Mosaku, Hailee Steinfeld, Li Jun Li, and Jayme Lawson each bring depth and power to their roles. These women don’t just occupy the screen; they shape the story, providing a balance to the film’s darker, more masculine energy. It’s a refreshing departure from typical gender dynamics in genre films, and each actress proves more than capable of holding their own in such a visceral, high-stakes narrative.

On the other hand, Delroy Lindo, a staple of powerhouse performances, once again delivers a role that audiences will immediately latch onto. His portrayal is magnetic, and it’s easy to see why his character earns such instant affection.

And as I said—I’m a sucker for vampires. Jack O’Connell’s portrayal of Remmick, he effortlessly walks the line between menacing and magnetic. His performance plays with the audience’s emotions—making us feel the pull of his dangerous charisma even when we know we shouldn’t trust him. His dialogue lingers long after it’s spoken, and he asks questions that both chill and intrigue. O’Connell’s ability to infuse his character with seductive darkness makes Remmick a truly unforgettable antagonist. Would I take his offer? I mean… maybe.

Lastly, we meet Miles Caton, whose first-ever acting role leaves a significant mark. His soulful voice and intense on-screen presence give his character an emotional weight that resonates throughout the film. Caton has the type of charisma that makes you believe he's been acting for years—he’s a natural, and this performance is just the beginning of what is sure to be a standout career.

70mm or Not—Just See It

You don’t have to see Sinners in 70mm—but if you can? Do it. There’s something sacred about watching a film the way the director intended. Sinners reminds you what cinema can do when it’s allowed to breathe, to move, to speak its own language.

It’s been a long time since I felt transformed in a movie theater. This one did it.

This Is What Cinema Should Be

From Dusk Till Dawn and Interview with the Vampire are cult classics, undoubtedly. But Sinners? It’s on an entirely different level. This film isn’t just fun, soulful, and bloody—it’s a cinematic experience that carries a powerful message. The social commentary is seamlessly integrated, never feeling forced, and it’s woven into the fabric of the story in a way that enhances rather than overshadows the narrative. Sinners is bold, stylish, and unapologetically original, standing as a daring new vision in the genre.

A huge part of what makes Sinners so visually arresting is the cinematography by Autumn Durald Arkapaw. Her lens doesn’t just frame the story—it electrifies it. Arkapaw made history as the first woman cinematographer to shoot on 65mm for a feature film, capturing Sinners in both IMAX and Ultra Panavision 70. The result is nothing short of stunning. From the moody, shadow-laced corners of juke joints to the sprawling Southern landscapes bathed in gold, every frame feels mythic, rich with texture and soul. Arkapaw doesn’t just give us a look—she gives us a feeling. Her work pulses with atmosphere, intimacy, and boldness, helping transform Sinners into a truly cinematic experience. This is history-making cinematography—and it shows.

Ryan Coogler is now tied with Christopher Nolan as one of my all-time favorite directors. Ryan Coogler’s direction takes that visual mastery and elevates it to new heights. His ability to inject adrenaline into every frame, while still finding moments of intimacy and vulnerability, sets him apart as one of the most visionary directors working today. His work, alongside Ludwig Göransson’s hypnotic and electrifying score, creates a world where every element—sound, color, movement, performance—feels meticulously crafted. The entire cast, from the mesmerizing performances of Michael B. Jordan to the commanding presence of the supporting actors, delivers on every level.

This is what cinema should be —bold, visionary, and unapologetically original. Sinners doesn’t just entertain; it transports you into its world. Every detail matters: the music that pulses through your veins, the colors that speak to your emotions, the performances that shape the narrative. It’s a film that challenges conventions while honoring storytelling traditions, one that makes you think, feel, and reflect long after the credits roll. Sinners reminds us of why we fell in love with cinema in the first place. It’s a work of art that celebrates culture, pushes boundaries, and leaves an indelible mark on the medium.