Review, Theatrical

Time for a Reel SINNERS review

About the film (courtesy of Warner Bros.):
Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.


Sinners, the chilling new film helmed by the visionary Ryan Coogler and featuring a mesmerizing performance by Michael B. Jordan, is a stark reminder of why the communal experience of cinema remains so vital. From its unsettling inception to its haunting conclusion, this 137-minute feature masterfully occupies the viewer’s mind, offering both immediate thrills and a subtle, creeping unease that deepens as the story unfolds. The narrative threads are expertly woven, providing context and foreshadowing that enrich the viewing experience in retrospect, highlighting the filmmakers’ meticulous craftsmanship. Not a single moment feels wasted; every scene in Sinners pulses with a palpable energy, demanding the audience’s full attention.

The acting in Sinners is a significant draw, with Michael B. Jordan delivering a career-defining performance as twin brothers. His portrayal is so nuanced and distinct that the audience quickly forgets they are witnessing a single actor embody two separate individuals. This feat of acting prowess is reminiscent of Tom Hardy’s dual role in Legend (2015), where the seamless interaction between the twins was a key element of the film’s success. Jordan navigates the complexities of these dual roles with remarkable skill, creating two unique and compelling characters that drive the narrative forward.

Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Tenaj L. Jackson, Jayme Lawson, Omar Benson Miller, and Delroy Lindo join Michael B. Jordan in helping round out a stellar supporting cast in Sinners. One of the reasons that this production is such a treat is due to the collaborative effort from everyone involved. And there’s lots of story, moments and dialogue to go around to give everyone a memorable opportunity or two to shine.

While Sinners is presented as a horror thriller, its thematic depth extends beyond simple scares. Coogler expertly layers the narrative with elements of suspense, drama, and even a touch of the supernatural, creating a rich and multifaceted cinematic tapestry. Adding to the film’s unique atmosphere is its infectious musical score. The soundtrack is more than just background noise; it’s an integral part of the storytelling, setting the mood and amplifying the emotional impact of key scenes. Viewers will likely find themselves unconsciously tapping along to its compelling rhythm, further immersing them in the world Coogler has created.

The collaboration between Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan is one of the most fruitful in contemporary cinema. Their partnership began with the critically acclaimed Fruitvale Station (2013), a powerful and moving film that announced both talents to a wider audience. This was followed by Creed (2015), a fresh and invigorating take on the Rocky franchise that earned Jordan significant praise and solidified Coogler’s directorial prowess within a major studio setting.

Their partnership continued with the groundbreaking Black Panther (2018) and its emotionally resonant sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), both of which achieved immense critical and commercial success, further cementing their status as a dynamic creative duo. Sinners marks their fifth collaboration, and it’s evident that their shared history and mutual understanding have fostered a deep creative synergy, allowing them to push boundaries and explore new genres together.

For those seeking a cinematic experience that will truly captivate and engage, offering both immediate thrills and lingering thematic resonance, Sinners is an exceptional choice. Prepare to have your senses thoroughly engaged when Sinners arrives in theaters everywhere starting Friday, April 18th.

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