By Kathia Woods | Special to The OBSERVER
“Sinners” marks Ryan Coogler’s first stand-alone feature since Fruitvale Station. The Academy Award-nominated director needed to break free of the MCU, and the sequel saga allowed him to present a uniquely Black story that pays homage to his forefathers while also putting a new take on horror.
The plot revolves around twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Michael B. Jordan), who return to their hometown from Chicago to start again, only to realize that an even bigger evil awaits them. This is Jordan and Coogler’s fourth collaboration, and it’s clear that there is a trust between director and performer that elevates “Sinners” above the level of a typical horror film.
The twin brothers returning to the rural South look to establish themselves in the underworld after having experienced so-called freedom up north. They yearn for the familiarity of loved ones, friends, and the blues.
There’s a certain rhythm in Coogler’s work, and it’s on full display in “Sinners.” He nicely captures the slowness and community of small-town southern Blackness. Once again, he collaborates with Academy Award winners Hannah Beachler and Ruth Carter to create a comprehensive picture. Coogler prided himself on shooting “Sinners” on large-format film that included IMAX 65 mm. He wanted the audience to be immersed in the story.
Another positive part of ‘Sinners” is how Coogler delves into the complexities of how people of African descent maintained their ancestral traditions despite being pushed into Christianity. The conflict between Christianity and secular music is still hotly disputed.
While all the technical aspects of “Sinners” help shape an interactive movie experience, it is his lead, mixed with a bright newcomer, that helps complete the story.
Actor Michael B. Jordan has often faced criticism for his surface-level portrayals. The now 38-year-old actor offers one of his most complete performances in “Sinners” as Smoke and Stack. They may be identical twins, and the two characters’ movement is smooth. Jordan gave each man nuance. The one twin is more cautious and wary of the world, while the other is more playful and cheerful. Jordan shines in sequences where both men share the screen. We forget he’s playing two characters and instead appreciate the pain that each man has experienced.
He expresses tenderness when the true reason they fled their hometown is standing in front of each man.
A woman is responsible for Smoke and Stack sorrows. Hailee Steinfeld portrays Mary, a multicultural woman. Steinfeld’s most mature part allowed her to embrace her ethnicity, as she is of African and Filipino descent on her mother’s side.
Wunmi Mosaku, who plays Annie, is the film’s other main character. Annie is a healer who practices ancestral spirituality. Mosaku’s performances have a calm strength that is always entertaining, as she dives into the roles she plays.
Miles Caton, as Sammie Moore, is another highlight. The actor is a complete revelation to witness. The story unfolds from Miles’ perspective, captivated by his elder cousin’s swagger. As the son of a preacher, he labors on the plantation, yearning for a life beyond the small village that confines him. Caton’s vocals reflect the pain of broken promises along with a hope for better days.
Delroy Lindo, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, and Omar Benson Miller round out the outstanding ensemble cast.
The Darkness represents how “white people” felt forced to remind Black people of their superiority while admiring Black culture. It is not enough to condemn Black people to second-class status; they must also be denied joy and freedom. This is precisely their role in the picture. The objective is to both frighten and enlighten audiences. The vampires’ behavior is reminiscent of the KKK’s techniques. After all, two strong Black men defying societal norms and pushing others to do the same is still not commonly accepted.
“Sinners” is a film that should be seen twice because it has so many hidden messages. It is a love letter to small southern towns and the people who stayed despite the challenges, as well as an ode to one of America’s best imports, the blues.
“Sinners” arrives in theaters April the 18th.