Set during the Jim Crow era in the Mississippi Delta, the new film Sinners (2025) by Ryan Coogler, follows twins Smoke and Stack. Trying to leave their troubled lives behind as they return to their hometown to start again, they discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back. Although I have to admit, as I did not see the trailers. I did not know about the vampires, so I thought the evil waiting was the Klan – who did make a short, and satisfying, appearance at the end of the film. But before reading on make a guess about who the real antagonist is Remick; an Irish vampire who sympathizes with the African American struggle; or the Klu Klux Klan?
Sinners, was written, produced, and directed by Ryan Coogler, who also directed the megahits Black Panther and Creed. The film, which stars Michael B. (and Michael A.) Jordan was recently seen by English and film teacher Mr. Scalora, who described it as a “skillfully shot historical drama about singing the blues. However, with the introduction of vampires, Sinners transforms into a disturbing horror tale where themes of racial assimilation, appropriation, and cultural survival rise to the surface. The twins and their friends are hunted by supernatural creatures who bite the living to induct them into their ‘family.’ ”
One of the most striking scenes features Sammie, who’s Smoke and Stacks younger cousin, displaying a transformative performance, where his music conjures spirits and sets the roof ablaze in a surreal, visually stunning moment. Supposedly Sammie was loosely based off of the legendary blues musician Robert Johnson, who was said to have sold his soul to the devil to become the greatest guitarist of his time.
Tension grows throughout the film, and the end of the film crescendos with the main characters engaged in a memorable final stand against the vampire horde, with sacrifices, betrayals, and a final sunrise that threatens the undead.
Screenshot from SinnersP.S – make sure you stay for the end credits: (spoiler ahead!) In a mid-credits scene set in 1992, an elderly Sammie reunites with vampiric versions of Stack and Mary, choosing mortality over immortality as they reflect on the past. Finally, a post-credits moment shows young Sammie joyfully playing “This Little Light of Mine” in church, symbolizing his journey toward self-acceptance and freedom. These scenes encapsulate the film’s emotional and visual power, grounded in music and memory. (Spoiler over)
This film dances confidently between genres: historical drama, western redemption, war film, exploitation, and, of course, horror. Anchored by the powerful pulse of Mississippi Delta Blues— a Black American musical tradition that transcends the film’s social boundaries, and perhaps, even time itself- Sinners presents a story of survival, identity, and transformation. One unforgettable, roof-burning scene summons ancestors and invites the audience to join, leaving everyone grooving, reflecting, and deeply moved.
