Ryan Coogler has primarily been known for his superior franchise films (Black Panther, Creed). In Sinners, he has written and directed a humdinger of a film that on outset appears in the guise of a vampire film that is much more.
Set in 1932 Mississippi, Smoke and Stack are twin brothers (Michael B Jordan) and World War I vets who worked for Al Capone. They return to their hometown, Clarksville, to open a juke joint and recruit local talent including their aspiring blues playing cousin, Sammie (Miles Caton). Old relationships are renewed amid racist times and sexual tension, and an atmosphere of music that has spiritual vibes. As opening night beckons, a mysterious stranger appears and begins to wreak malevolent havoc that threatens to destroy the community. Family and friends must ban together for a final stand.
Coogler has a compelling vision and is fearless in having the story work on multiple levels. He sets up a framework of the Deep South still teaming with Klansmen and sharecroppers with a mesmerizing blues soundtrack (and a remarkable, musical sequence that melds past, present and future). By melding together these elements and adding a vampire subplot which is a catalyst that drives the harrowing climax, this is not a simple genre film but rather a more complex, revealing character study abetted by a strong cast including Hailee Steinfeld and Delroy Lindo. Jordon is outstanding as the twins who are seamlessly combined cinematically.
Much
as Jordan Peele elevated the horror genre to lofty heights with Get Out, so has Coogler (with a kinship
to From Dusk Till Dawn) with this gem
beautifully shot in IMAX. Its graphic conclusion
should not take away its heart and soul. A
watershed moment for Coogler. (Stay for the revealing mid-credit scene.)
****1/2
of ***** stars (for Jordan fans)
