"Sinners" is a cinematic chef's kiss

One of the year's most anticipated movies finally arrives. Director Ryan Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan reunite for the fourth time in Sinners from Warner Bros. Pictures. Coogler also pens the film's screenplay, his first stab at a nonexistent IP or true story.

Coogler sets his fifth film in 1932 Mississippi, where Jordan portrays twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Michael B. Jordan in a dual role) who have recently returned from the Windy City with the supplies and dreams of opening a juke joint.  Naturally, they are welcomed home with open arms by friends and family, including Delta Slim (Delroy Lindo), a blues singer,  younger cousin and pk Sammie (Miles Caton), and old friend Cornbread (Omar Benson Miller).

Naturally, the two also have former flames. Stack deals with his ex-fiancée, Mary (Hailee Steinfeld), while Smoke gets hot and heavy with Annie (Wunmi Mosaku). However, this is the deep South and Klan land, so the brothers do have their work cut out for them in protecting their investment. However, things take a sinister turn when the mysterious Remmick (Jack O'Connell) and crew show up, and they have more than an appetite for music.

If you have viewed the trailers for Sinners, you are likely aware that the primary antagonists in the film are vampires. However, as Coogler has articulated in various interviews, the narrative encompasses significantly more than what is presented in the trailers. He has intentionally structured the trailers in this manner to serve a specific purpose.

I aim to keep this review as spoiler-free as possible. Sinners begin by immersing us in the poignant journey of Sammie, whose haunted gaze reveals a profound change since the previous night as he searches for redemption within the solemn walls of the church. We also encounter Jordan, portraying one of the lead characters, who captivates with his magnetic presence and embodies black excellence with an impressive display of confidence and strength.

The cast delivers outstanding performances, with singer Miles Canton especially impressive in his debut acting role, showcasing a remarkable range of emotions that captivate the audience. Meanwhile, Jack O'Connell embraces his character as the primary antagonist, bringing a complex and menacing presence to the screen. Given his compelling portrayal, I wouldn't be surprised to see O'Connell stepping into a significant role in either the DC Universe or the Marvel Cinematic Universe soon, as he has found his niche in this genre.

Accompanied by a score from Ludwig Göransson, Coogler meticulously establishes the plot by introducing each character who will contribute to the opening night at the juke joint. Enthusiasts of cinema will find this presentation particularly appealing, as the director has chosen to utilize wide-format film stock and analog cinematography. He employs two of the most esteemed formats: IMAX 15-perf 70mm and Ultra Panavision 70mm. As I engaged with the film, I experienced a profound sense of being transported back to the 1930s.

When the supernatural elements kick in during the third act, the wait is well worth it. However, given how strong the film already is, I can't help but wonder what the end result would've been if Coogler had made a straightforward gangster film in which the twins' past catches up with them, and they must defend their home turf.

Regardless, though, with his fifth film, Ryan Coogler cements his place as one of the best directors of his generation.

Final Grade: A

Sinners opens in theaters tomorrow.

P.S. Be sure to stay through all of the credits.