Ryan Coogler’s new vampire movie Sinners offers an uncommon blend of blockbuster sensibilities and philosophical depth. The film follows Smoke (Michael B. Jordan) as he reunites with his girlfriend Annie (Wunmi Mosaku), a practitioner of traditional medicine, after leaving their infant daughter behind in Mississippi.
Annie and Smoke’s relationship is complicated by the loss of their child, which creates tension between them. However, when Annie asks Smoke about her prayers for his safety, he reveals a vial of her potion around his neck, showcasing their emotional connection.
Sinners eschews traditional vampire lore, instead drawing from folklore to create its unique world. The film’s exploration of the afterlife and the nature of love is nuanced and thought-provoking, with a central question that challenges the characters: Is it better to be alive or with those you love?
The movie boasts an impressive cast, including Delroy Lindo as a blues musician, and Coogler’s direction balances serious-minded fiction with campy humor. His career trajectory has cemented his reputation as a talented filmmaker who can navigate both indie drama and blockbuster franchises.
Sinners delves into themes of identity, community, and the power of music to transcend mortality. The film’s climax articulates its ideas through a vision of Smoke’s dead child, rather than relying on heavy-handed exposition.
Overall, Sinners is a remarkable achievement in balancing artistic vision with commercial success, offering a unique blend of philosophical depth and blockbuster entertainment.
Source: https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/sinners-movie-review