SINNERS Review (potential spoilers)

“I went to the crossroad, fell on my knees, asked the Lord above, have mercy..”

- Robert Johnson

January 28th, 2025 is the day I first saw the trailer for SINNERS, Immediately, my thoughts flew to the old black folktale of blues singer, Robert Johnson. Rumor has it, Johnson sold his soul to the devil for the ability to sing the blues. As I watched the trailer I said to myself, “Ain’t no way man, ain’t no way.”

Ryan Coogler, you’ve done it again.

SINNERS, in my opinion, is Coogler’s rendition of Robert Johnson’s story. The impact of the blues and how it invited both positive and negative spirits through sounds and harmony is strikingly similar to Johnson’s story. Ludwig did a fabulous job of conveying that throughout the entire film; his consistency in production needs to be studied more. Spoiler alert - - my favorite scene is when a character (won’t be named due to avoiding spoiling the entire film) is explaining the sad fate of their brother. While they’re explaining, you can hear the sounds of death echoing the character’s words, while overtaking the sounds of the blues in the background. There are plenty of scenes where Ludwig’s talented ear is on full display. His production is a valuable piece to the originality that comes with a Ryan Coogler film. The two have a Bron’ and Wade type of chemistry, which would make sense, considering they’ve been friends and collaborators since college.

The entire casting was flawless but I would like to acknowledge how impressive Miles Caton is in this movie. I’m still in disbelief that this was his first acting role. Working side by side with Michael B Jordan, could be a lot of pressure considering who Michael B is in current times. Michael B Jordan is such an infamous name today, we’ve heard it so much over the years, but in this movie, your ears are more focused on Caton’s vocals. Experiencing SINNERS felt like I was watching a Horror/Thriller musical.

Michael B’s name wasn’t always as beloved as it is now. Before Fruitvale Station, some film fans were super hard on Michael B Jordan, often criticizing his range and acting ability. Well, Jamal.. Wallace, don’t trip, this is for you. When Michael B was younger he played the character Jamal in the movie “Hardball” and the character Wallace in the hit HBO series “The Wire.” For those unfamiliar with these two classics, just know, he’s always had the range! As biased in support as I can be when it comes to his films, SINNERS is definitely the one film to reference for anyone still questioning his talent and range. I mean, the guy just played twins in a movie - musical (whatever you want to call it) about vampires. What more can we ask of him at this point?

Hailee Steinfield (Allen), I’m uncertain on what I’m supposed to call her now. I’m also uncertain if Josh Allen has the best resume out of the couple at this point. Steinield has starred in many roles to date, but her job in SINNERS is one I’ll never forget. I saw a side of her I don’t think I’ve seen in her career before this film. She was charming, witty, hilarious, and probably one of the most impactful characters in the entire movie. She also had one of the most ironic lines in the movie. She references vampire transition as being in “heaven on Earth,” but the reality for her peers was quite the opposite. As they begin to burn away and perish, it looks more like what Hell on Earth would be.

Jack O’Connell, you’ve got a new fan in me, buddy! Unfortunately, I have this problem, and maybe I should seek a therapist, but I often catch myself rooting for the villain in movies. I cannot say that was the case for this film. THAT’s how good O’Connell was in his role. I mean, Jesus Christ, no pun intended, the dude had me completely locked in. Coogler’s films, alone, tend to have that effect but O’Connell’s representation of the devil looks and sounds just like what you would imagine. He was charming, sly, and resourceful in his attempts to get not only the characters but the audience to “let him in.”

I can confidently say that SINNERS is in the lead for film of the year. I know so many people throw that phrase around, and I’m aware so many good films will soon be released, but I’m willing debate about it. Matter fact - - wait. Before you jump the gun and make the decision to debate, ask yourself “Have I seen this movie more than once yet?” If your answer is NO, please don’t bother me. I’ve reached a point with Ryan Coogler films, if you watch it once, you need to to watch it again the next day. It was nearly impossible for me to formulate any complete thought after the first watch of SINNERS. I was speechless, struck, and simply impressed.

I’m not here to harp on the technical side of the film. I’m also not here with the main objective to spoil the film, but please understand that SINNERS is an experience, not a movie. If there is the slimmest chance that you happen to be one of the UNLUCKIEST, UNEDUCATED, and UNCULTURED individuals that has never seen a Ryan Coogler directed film, I highly encourage you hit the theaters or your local living room immediately! We are in an age where directors like Coogler have surpassed “making their mark” on the industry, he’s creating a legacy.

Coogler seems to be experimenting his creativity with no restrictions. Since working with Marvel and even making Creed, from the Rocky Franchise, I often felt Coogler’s creativity was marginalized. I mean bro was clearly being held back from his true vision. SINNERS felt like I was watching Coogler’s passion project, and it inspired me to continue to work on mine. I’m forever thankful as he continues to share his thoughts with us on the big screen.