Full disclosure, I’m not a fan of horror films and normally wouldn’t choose one to review. However, I was introduced to the work of Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan at Sundance 2013 when Coogler premiered his first feature-length film, “Fruitvale Station,” starring Jordan. Since then, I’ve admired both of these outstanding talents.
In “Sinners,” Coogler is writer, director and co-producer. Jordan does more than star. He plays the dual roles of Smoke and Stack Moore — identical twins, once famous for their antics before leaving to serve in WW I. Since then, they’ve led the high life in Chicago, allegedly working for the mob.
Set in the Mississippi Delta in 1932, the twins return to their roots with the dream of starting up a juke joint for the local Black community. The suspiciously large wad of cash in their pocket may or may not motivate the mob to follow them home. They purchase an abandoned sawmill from a rabid racist in a county where KKK sheets are hanging in even the most respectable closets. What could possibly go wrong?
To bring their dream to life, the twins recruit old friends and family, including young cousin Sammie, an aspiring singer and guitar player. Sammie is eager to hear local legend Delta Slim play the keyboard and maybe have the chance to accompany him. He is about to have the night of his life.
The excitement of the juke’s grand opening drowns out the tense undercurrent of a possible visit from the mob or KKK. It isn’t long before the joyous, late-night reveling turns dark and dangerous as a supernatural evil glides in with a song of its own. It will be a night no living soul will ever forget.
I’d be remiss not to mention that in addition to being classified as an adventure/horror film, some critics have referred to it as a musical. I didn’t expect a couple of the song and dance numbers, but admit they add to the aura of the supernatural.
Ludwig Göransson, a longtime Coogler collaborator, composed the film's score and served as executive producer.
With a cleverly written script full of captivating twists, “Sinners” is a unique blend of horror and history. It may be a little early for Oscar buzz, but chances are good you’ll be hearing a lot more about this film.
“Sinners” is rated R for strong bloody violence, sexual content and language. It runs 2 hours and 17 eerie minutes.
