“Sinners” is an early contender for the best of 2025.
I love it when a director has their go-to actor. Think John Ford and John Wayne or Martian Scorsese and Robert DeNiro or Leonardo DiCaprio. One of the more recent ones is Ryan Coogler and Michael B Jordan, who have made five movies together. Their newest movie, "Sinners," is up there with the best of their collaborations.
In 1932, twins Smoke and Stack (Michael B Jordan) return to their hometown to start over and open a juke joint. On opening night, they are confronted by an evil they are not ready for.
If Jordan is in it, I will watch it, and this movie proves why. Having one actor play two characters is hit or miss. Jordan's portrayal of the twins is incredible. Costuming aside, you know exactly which character he plays based on the subtle differences in how he plays them. Stack is a bit more brash, and Smoke is more level-headed. This is such a nuanced performance that it feels like he is a shoo-in for Best Actor at next year's Oscars.
One of the musicians that the twins get to play is their cousin Sammie (Miles Caton). This is his first movie, but he has lots of musical experience. He has been a background vocalist for major artists and has performed for years. He learned how to play blues guitar in two months for this role. Not only does he have the musical chops for this movie, but his acting is just as good. He shares a lot of scenes with Jordan, and he holds his own. Canton is an actor to keep your eye on.
The trailer reveals this, but it might be a spoiler. If you want to go in completely fresh, skip this paragraph. The evil that comes calling is a group of vampires. The movie goes from the story of these twins with a shady background starting a business to a horror movie. Coogler's take on vampires keeps with the traditional rules (stake to the heart, sunlight) but is presented in an interesting way. They offer (at least our main characters) a chance at power and immortality. It is a way to escape the racism of the time and know that you can get the better of those who hate you because of your skin color. It's a deeper take on a monster that traditionally kills and turns people indiscriminately.
"Sinners" is one of the best movies of the year. It is not for everyone (it is horror, it's very racy at times, and it features brutal violence). The music is incredible, the performances are award-worthy, and this phenomenal one-shot blew my mind. I love that this is doing great at the box office. It shows that there is space for original stories in theaters.
9/10
Rated R for strong bloody violence, sexual content, and language.
2h 17m
