Sinners is a defining piece of modern cinema.
Every conversation to be had or shared around the feature, directed by Ryan Coogler and headlined by Michael B. Jordan, errs alongside triggering some kind of nostalgic flashback to better times. And in many ways, it talks directly to one of the many themes the film intends to share as we all sink our teeth into what may be 2025’s first great film.
Taking place in the Mississippi Delta in 1932, Sinners tells the story about one day. That’s right, the film takes place within a day. Following twins Smoke and Stack (both portrayed by Jordan) and their cousin Sammie ‘Preacher Boy’ Moore, we join the group for their Juke Joint opening. In a time of segregation and the hand of colonialism above them, Sinners portrays their attempts to live through it. Because in this world, it’s not just the effect of the European takeover but indirect supernatural means.
Yes. Supernatural.
It seems sensational in a way, but it really feels like only Coogler could direct something like Sinners. The way it talks to the people and their struggles in the era has his vision weaved throughout. But it’s also the way these characters come together to create these small pockets of freedom and culture which allows them to move forward and find strength in the other. All behind the mystical happenings of the Mississippi Delta.
Jordan firmly leads the feature, but find themselves superbly supported by newcomer Miles Caton as Preacher Boy. Presenting the innocence of a young adult learning what an adult is, swiftly becomes an innocent young adult trying to survive the night is something they inhabit as deuteragonist to Smoke and Stack. Hailee Steinfeld and Wunmi Mosaku present strong feminine leads who not only represent the heart of Jordan’s twins, but also in the strength of how they’ll fight for themselves in this one night at the Juke Joint.
Ludwig Göransson stays on their unstoppable streak, producing another stellar soundtrack which speaks to the era. But it also flat out adds to the overall shape of Sinners the film, filling the air with a magic that made the statement “THAT ONE SCENE” gain virality after the film’s release (and believe me, when you see it, YOU SEE IT).
Sinners is a film that should be consumed if you have the chance. It presents a gorgeous world filled with characters who all get their chance to shine. And it might just end up being one of your favourite nights too.
Ticks all the boxes so vividly that it leaves a mark on you. I haven't forgotten 'that one scene' and I transcend every time I think about it. An outstanding cinematic feature.
