Since his 2013 debut film, Fruitvale Station, director Ryan Coogler has continued to elevate the landscape of cinema with his unique voice and innovations. With his journey through independent film to popular IPs like Black Panther and Rocky, Coogler has shown that no matter the genre and circumstances, he’s remained true to his vision which has in turn elevated the genres and properties into the conversation where his entries stand near the top of the Mt.Rushmore of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the Rockyverse respectively.
Following Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, it was announced that Coogler would step away from Marvel and big IP to dive into the horror genre with Sinners-a fresh and original tale of man vs vampire. Reuniting with Michael B. Jordan and backed by sensational ensemble, there was a level excitement to see Coogler’s ideas for a tried and true genre. In true Ryan Coogler fashion, he not only delivered on those expectations, he surpassed them.
Sinners is a gripping and cathartic cinematic experience. Powered by its grand IMAX scope, the film unleashes a visual intensity as it maneuvers through its layered themes while embracing its magnetic music, sex appeal, and ultra violent madness. Sinners is sure to take a bite out of every “Best of 2025” list.
Sinners follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack. As they return to 1930’s Mississippi, years after spending time in Chicago working for the likes of Al Capone. With their return, comes an idea to open a juke joint where music and freedom is their motive. Aided by their cousin Sammie’s stunning voice, the joint opens without any issues, until the undead arrive.
Ryan Coogler’s screenplay subverts genre expectations by weaving a tale of the ongoing racial oppression facing 1930’s Mississippi while highlighting the power and significance of music. Coogler challenges his audience with layered complexity, culminating in a blood-soaked third act that’s sure to thrill horror enthusiasts. Never straying from its central exploration of the importance of art, familial bonds and enduring strength of community, Coogler’s script is a bold swing that’s rewarded as one of the year’s most compelling works.
Throughout their years of collaboration, Coogler has drawn some of the best performances of Michael B. Jordan’s career, and Sinners is no different. Jordan’s dual performance is met with a resonant contrast and emotional volatility that makes the brother’s relationship distinguishable, while still maintaining the signature Michael B. Jordan charm. Sinners ensemble assist in elevating the films effectiveness, delivering some of the years most compelling supporting takes.
Adding emotional depth to Cooglers themes of the music and art is Miles Caton. In his debut, Caton shines as the film’s through-line. Hailee Steinfeld and Jack O’ Connell are equally magnetic and provocative, injecting Sinners with intensity and a heightened sense of tension.
The craft elements of Sinners are on par with the films deep screenplay and powerhouse performances. To the shock of no one, Ludwig Göransson once again shows why he’s one of the best composers working today. While distinct from his recent Oscar winning work on Oppenheimer, Göransson’s score is equally effective. Incorporating gospel and blues, Göransson heightens the films most emotional moments, including a musical sequence that stands as one of the years most impactful. Autumn Arkapaw’s cinematography stuns as the 70mm IMAX offers lasting images.
Despite the brilliance of Coogler’s script, Sinners cerebral pacing won’t work for everyone. His bold swing of sinking his teeth into character exploration and motives prior delivering a brutal bite in the third act may scare some away. However, patience is paid off as Sinners is a cinematic adrenaline rush of originality within a landscape reliant on the safety net of IP.
