Yesterday I watched #sinners and I still can’t stop thinking about it… It’s been a long time since a movie got me this hooked!
You don’t see a film every day that blends horror, music, and socio-political commentary this perfectly!
!!! - WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS - !!!
Ryan Coogler delivers an audiovisual masterpiece that breaks away from the usual clichés of classic vampire movies.
Set in 1932 Mississippi, during the Blues era — when African Americans were still working on plantations and racism was at its peak — two twin brothers return to their hometown, trying to start a business and leave their old Chicago life behind.
Through the eyes of a preacher’s kid with an incredible musical talent, we watch them slowly build their dream, while settling old scores with those they left behind in search of a better life.
But... things won’t end well.
There's a saying that music can tame even the wildest beasts.
But here, legend has it that the most talented musicians could bring forth things from other worlds — things that were anything but good.
And these "beings" had different names across cultures.
The film takes us on a journey through the magical world of Blues (and more), revealing the tough lives of African Americans during that time.
The focus may be on the two brothers and their goal, but at every step — through the stories of the people they meet and interact with — you feel their pain, their struggles.
Sure, the white folk had technically "freed" them, but the reality was very different.
Even the brothers themselves are a mirror image — a social critique of wealth vs. poverty, freedom vs. slavery.
But then comes someone who doesn't see skin color — to him, everyone is family.
Everyone is equal.
After all, does death care about skin color? No.
Through music and death, he wants to rewrite history — to create new pages for a fallen humanity and put an end to bigotry and fanaticism.
Everyone is family... But at what cost?
Remmick, this ancient vampire who's seen more than enough of humanity, has his own truth.
His own concept of freedom.
Through blood, death, and resurrection, he wants to erase every bloodstained word written by humankind.
Isn’t that a little ironic?
The movie’s script is so well-written — the first two acts are pure build-up, pulling you deeper and deeper, making you genuinely care about everyone surrounding the brothers.
You laugh with them, you get moved by them, you shiver at their stories.
The dialogue is deep and meaningful when it needs to be, lighter and more relaxed when appropriate.
Everything is perfectly placed and fits the story seamlessly.
Then, in the third act, the storm suddenly hits — and everything collapses under your feet.
The horror is real and there’s no defense against it.
Redemption through death, or death by living?
The action and terror jolt you awake from the musical spell and slam you back into a grim reality.
You’ll find yourself desperately rooting for the protagonists. They must survive!
They’ve all been through so much.
Until finally... each character finds their own form of release and freedom.
So many messages in this film... So many!
It masterfully tackles racism, intolerance, lost chances, life choices, religion, and freedom.
The vampires? They aren’t the point.
They’re just the vehicle.
Maybe even the means of escape...
The direction is meticulous down to the last detail, combined with stunning cinematography that gifts us incredible, frame-worthy shots.
The camera is always right where it needs to be, pulling you inside the story, not just telling it.
It succeeds more than spectacularly.
You can’t tear your eyes away from the screen, not for a second.
Even the violent scenes are visually crafted with such care.
You genuinely forget you’re in a movie theater.
The highlight?
The musical scene with Sammie Moore (Miles Caton).
An emotional journey that starts from Blues and dives into the musical and cultural history of Africans and beyond.
It’s so powerful, it’ll bring tears to your eyes!
That single scene alone deserves an award for the insane level of craftsmanship by everyone involved.
And speaking of music — what an absolute treat for the ears!
Each scene has its own unique soundtrack, moving from Blues to Soul, Jazz, and even Irish Folk.
Ludwig Göransson, along with Blues artists and the cast themselves, crafted a magical score, authentic to the 1930s.
Two other musical scenes also completely stole the show — the one with Pearline and the one with Remmick.
You’d give anything to be there, in the middle of that dance, that music, ignoring the looming danger.
Finally, let’s talk about the performances:
If it weren’t for these actors, this perfect result wouldn’t exist.
Everyone was fantastic, but special shoutouts go to:
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The always amazing Michael B. Jordan (in a double role as Smoke/Stack),
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The talented Miles Caton (Sammie Moore),
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The chillingly captivating Jack O’Connell (Remmick), and
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The wonderful Wunmi Mosaku (Annie).
10 out of 10, no question.
