The theme of vampires is not new to the movie atmosphere – think of “Nosferatu,” “Dracula,” and more. This trope has seen many different iterations and is set in various genres, however, racial diversity is not one that has commonly been depicted. Movies and literature generally depict vampires as pale, paper-skinned, blood-sucking demons. Recently, however, a new movie has reset the standards of vampires.
“Sinners,” directed by Ryan Cooger, director of films including “Black Panther” and “Creed,” depicts the events of two entrepreneurial twin brothers, Stack and Smoke, and their little cousin, Sammy’s, encounter with the supernatural.
While typical films of vampires include dark, stormy nights set in Victorian Europe in a luxurious, colossal cathedral, “Sinners” breaks the stereotype by placing the movie in the Jim Crow South. This shift struck me as more purposeful than aesthetic. Being set in this era, the Klu Klux Klan (KKK), an influential, white supremacist terrorist group, made an appearance. The KKK installed decades of terror and fear to the non-white population in the South, akin to the fear of vampires. Evoking the connection between vampires and the KKK adds historical significance to the movie, rather than just originality.
Historical purpose aside, the movie plot quickly immerses the audience into this feeling of uneasiness that the South, during that time period, was riddled with. Before the introduction of the vampires, the setting and the tone of the movie introduces this clear sense of tension. The opening scene in a church combines this feeling with an undertone of the religious supernatural, even before the main conflict of the film arises.
Regarding characters, the audience is able to see Michael B. Jordan’s level of talent as we watch him play twin brothers, giving both characters completely distinct personalities that complement one another. Their younger cousin, played by Miles Caton, introduces more of a fresh personality to the cast by his intriguing musical talent, and alongside, his naiveness that transforms by the end of the film. Each character brought some sort of relatableness which accentuates the horror of the plot.
Overall, vampires are a difficult genre to create original material in. Even “Sinners” maintain the familiar symbols of vampires’ weaknesses: garlic, sunlight and a stake to the heart. Despite this, the movie, through its originality, historical setting, and interesting characters, offers a unique and incredible new film to add to your watchlist.
