Vampires have long captivated my imagination, securing their place as one of my favorite subgenres within horror. My fascination spans decades, starting with the pioneering classic, Dracula (1931). This iconic film established the foundational lore of vampires in cinema, introducing countless archetypes that continue to resonate throughout the genre today.
Moving into more contemporary interpretations, I am equally thrilled by Nosferatu (2024). This haunting reimagining breathes new life into the mythos with its atmospheric cinematography and nuanced exploration of the vampire’s existential dread. The film juxtaposes the horror of vampirism with a poignant commentary on loneliness and humanity, showcasing how the genre can evolve while still paying homage to its roots.
Whether a revered classic or a quirky, low-budget endeavor, each film uniquely contributes to my fascination with the vampire archetype and its evolving narrative in horror cinema. Therefore, when Sinners was announced as a Southern gothic vampiric period piece starring Michael B. Jordan, I knew I had to put this at the top of my priority list for 2025.
Ryan Coogler, acclaimed for his work on the groundbreaking Black Panther films, has ventured into new territory with his latest project, Sinners. Sitting at 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, this movie marks his first original feature. It showcases a compelling story centered around identical twin brothers, both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan. The duo returns to their roots in the vibrant Mississippi Delta to resurrect the spirit of their community by opening a lively juke joint.
As they prepare for this ambitious venture, Smoke and Stack gather a motley crew of friends and family to aid in the grand opening. Among them is their energetic cousin, Sammie (played by Miles Caton), whose soulful blues singing will be the star of the night. The legendary Delta Slim (Delroy Lindo), serves as the heart of the juke joint, providing soulful music on the piano and harmonica.
The brothers also rely on the local Chinese grocer (Wunmi Mosaku), Annie, who promises to supply an array of delicious dishes. To maintain order amidst the revelry, they hire Cornbread (Omar Miller) as the bouncer — a role he takes on with a mix of swagger and vigilance.
With music, food and drinks all coming together, Smoke and Stack are ready to celebrate the grand opening with a vibrant party that promises a night of joy, unity and community spirit in the heart of their hometown.
Of course, the evening feels too good to be true when the sun sets because, well, vampires.
The film’s first half intricately weaves together the backstories of its eclectic band of characters, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in their lives. As the plot unfolds, we meet a range of love interests and former flames that deepen the narrative and enrich the characterization of Smoke, Stack and Sammie.
Don’t let this part of the movie lose you. The cinematography is breathtaking, with each frame beautifully crafted to capture the essence of the character’s emotional journeys. Complemented by a stunning sound design that elevates every moment, the film becomes a sensory feast, inviting viewers to indulge fully in this vibrant candy store of sights and sounds.
Sinners was filmed using a combination of IMAX and Ultra Panavision cameras by Autumn Durald Arkapaw on location in Louisiana. The rolling landscapes and shots are bursting with color and texture — so stunning, that I was in awe. Combined with the score and rich blues music, you are transported directly into 1930s Mississippi.
One breathtaking scene left me utterly speechless, captivating my senses with its stunning visuals, evocative music and deeply rooted cultural significance. It’s an experience you must see to believe: the vibrant performances of West African ceremonial dancers, the pulsating rhythms of skilled drummers and the electrifying energy of hip-hop performers and DJs create a mesmerizing tapestry of sound and movement.
The visual spectacle is enhanced by the intricate costumes that tell stories of heritage and tradition; each movement steeped in meaning and history. The atmosphere crackles with an infectious energy that draws you in, making it impossible to look away.
Pay close attention to the voice over during the cold open, as it sets the stage for this powerful narrative: It weaves the stories of legendary musicians whose spirits are said to transcend time, bridging the past and future. Their music acts as a conduit for healing within communities, fostering unity and strength while serving as a magnet for both good and malevolent forces.
In recent vampire films, one of the most critical moments is when their actual appearance is unveiled. It can make or break the movie. Thankfully, I was impressed by the overall vibe here! Once the creatures transform into their monstrous forms, the gruesome effects are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing impressive special effects and beautifully crafted CGI. The teeth aren’t traditional, but I like that. There’s a lot of gore to satisfy horror aficionados, but it’s essential to be patient as the movie builds. Trust me, the payoff is worth it!
I found it interesting that traditional vampire habits and vulnerabilities are used, for example they must be invited in, sunlight burns their skin, and they are repelled by garlic. I know these things as an avid horror fan, but I don’t know if the general public does. Either way, you learn the ropes of vampire lore from Sinners.
Michael B. Jordan’s dual roles can be confusing, at first. However, everything falls into place once you identify which twin sports a sure hat or has the gold caps. Jordan is an exceptional actor who effortlessly brings charm and authority to the screen. His presence is as compelling as it is powerful. Portraying two distinct characters is no small feat, yet he succeeds in making each one a unique individual.
Miles Caton, who plays their cousin Sammie — also known as “preacher boy ” — delivers another standout performance. This is his first significant role, and he nailes it. When he sings the blues, his voice is like butter, so smooth and sultry against the twang of the guitar. I wasn’t expecting such a deep, rich voice, which is commanding when he speaks.
There is much more comedy here than I expected. Delta Slim contributes significantly, and the audience in my theater was in stitches. The humor is perfectly timed, alleviating some of the tension, as this movie is intense. There are a few jump scares, but the film’s third act features nail-biting action, and the comedic moments allow your shoulders to relax a bit.
I rate Sinners a remarkable four-and-a-half out of five stars. This film is an exhilarating blend of immersive storytelling and relentless action, presenting a captivating portrayal of vampires set in the sultry, atmospheric backdrop of the South. Picture a fusion of Lovecraft Country and 30 Days of Night set against the intriguing historical tapestry of 1930s Mississippi and you get Sinners.
From start to finish, the film is nearly flawless. My sole critique pertains to the desire for a more pronounced depiction of the intense conflict between vampires and humans in the mill scenes. Despite this minor shortcoming, the overall experience is incredibly satisfying. I cannot recommend seeing this film in IMAX highly enough; it transforms the viewing into an unforgettable experience.
The sensory immersion is exceptionally potent, reminiscent of my awe during Jordan Peele’s Nope, another cinematic marvel shot with IMAX cameras. The audio design in Sinners is phenomenal, delivering soundscapes that will almost literally blow you away, making the IMAX experience well worth it.
PS: Stay past the credits for an extra-memorable scene.