I was lucky enough to attend an early screening of Sinners in IMAX 70mm, presented by director Ryan Coogler and composer Ludwig Göransson. Experiencing the film in the format it was shot in, alongside the creative geniuses behind it, made for one of the greatest cinematic experiences of my life—one that will stay with me forever.
Ryan Coogler said in the introduction that Sinners was a love letter to the theatrical experience—and he couldn’t have been more successful in delivering that. The film is packed with laughs, scares, action, an unbelievable amount of tension, and just about everything you could ask for in a perfect cinematic experience. It’s a film that reminds you exactly why you love movies.
Technically, this is the height of Coogler’s career so far. The direction is flawless, and every frame is absolutely stunning. It features one of the most incredible shots I’ve seen in recent memory—it blew my mind when I saw it. Ryan Coogler has once again proven why he’s one of the greatest talents working today, and I truly hope he continues creating original films like this.
The score and soundtrack are easily among the best and most important elements of the film, particularly in a story so deeply focused on the power of music. Ludwig Göransson is operating on an entirely different level. I don’t think there’s a more versatile or talented composer working today. From reinventing the music of Star Wars, to delivering one of the greatest scores ever with Oppenheimer, and now to Sinners—he can truly do it all. There’s no composer I’m more excited to see attached to a project than Ludwig. His score for Sinners is absolutely out of this world, and in a just world, he will be at least nominated for an Oscar for it.
Michael B. Jordan delivers some of his career-best work in the dual role of Smoke and Stack. While both characters share similarities from the time they’ve spent together, each carries their own distinct nuances. I need the Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan partnership to continue forever.
The entire supporting cast elevates the film as well. Delroy Lindo and Omar Miller steal every scene they’re in with the immense humour they bring. The entire cinema erupted in laughter during nearly every scene they had. Wunmi Mosaku and Hailee Steinfeld are both brilliant as the abandoned ex-partners of the Smokestack twins. Jack O’Connell is fantastic and sinister as the main vampire antagonist. And finally, Miles Caton, perhaps the most impressive of the cast, makes a stunning acting debut.
Despite all the supernatural elements, the story is grounded by real and powerful themes such as love, community, ancestry, and the power of music and art. Coogler offers fresh and original insight into how art transcends time and connects generations. There’s one scene in particular that captures this beautifully—one of the greatest scenes I’ve ever seen. You’ll know exactly what I mean when you see it.
Overall, Sinners is an excellent film, and it will take a lot to surpass it as the best of the year. I’ve never seen a film blend all the elements that make for a great cinematic experience so perfectly. Seeing it in 70mm and personally congratulating Ryan Coogler at the end of the screening was an experience I’ll never forget. I can’t wait to see it another five times—make sure to watch it on the biggest screen possible.
Review by Jacob Wolfe
Wolfe At The Movies 
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