The picture is already making a splash with early critical acclaim and a flawless 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. But, beyond its suspenseful storytelling and genre-bending creativity, there is a deeper impact: a reimagining of how African American people are portrayed in horror, as well as a new horizon for Black storytelling in Hollywood.
Michael B. Jordan stars in “Sinners” as twin brothers who return to the post-Civil War South to forge a legacy. Instead, they find a festering darkness: a gang of ancient vampires feasting on vengeance. The film’s gothic horror scenario serves as a background for a deeper, symbolic conflict over identity, legacy and liberty.
For decades, African American characters in horror films have been limited to stereotypes. Whether they’re the first to die, comedic relief, or one-dimensional symbols of suffering, Black people are far too frequently used as supporting characters rather than protagonists. This restricted representation has historically influenced how Black audiences perceive themselves in film — rarely as heroes and even fewer as a range of individuals capable of both light and darkness.
A 2020 study by the National Research Group found that 83% of Black Americans feel negatively portrayed in the media, especially in film. Past films such as “12 Years a Slave,” “The Butler” and “The Color Purple” have broken box office records and contributed to teaching the history of injustice toward African Americans. While empowering, rising generations strive for more depth and creative works on the silver screen.
Lashaun Collins, a senior business administration student at Florida A&M, shared her thoughts on typical Black trauma movies putting actors in an everlasting box and how excited she is for a refreshing film like “Sinners” to be the movie to kick off the summer season.
“ I miss when Black directors had imagination. When we show the Black struggle, we don’t get the love and appreciation it deserves regarding award season. I think directors and actors alike should step out of their comfort zone, start being intentional and make more compelling projects they can actually enjoy.
“I like Michael B. Jordan, so seeing him put on a southern twang and fighting vampires, I was intrigued within the first 15 seconds of the trailer,” she added.
“Sinners” will be released only in theatres on Friday, April 18.
Coogler’s dive into horror is more than just a new genre; it’s an attempt to widen the range of Black film. He creates space for myth, mystery and magic without compromising meaning. “Sinners” is a brave new chapter in his career that foreshadows a future in which Black filmmakers and characters are no longer constrained by expectation but rather empowered by wonder.