Clarksdale, Mississippi – The movie “Sinners” may have been marketed as a supernatural thriller with Michael B. Jordan playing twins and facing off against vampires. However, at its core, the true protagonist of the film is Sammie (Miles Caton), the young cousin of the SmokeStack twins. The story revolves around Sammie’s musical talents, drawing the people of 1930s Clarksdale to the twins’ juke joint, where even the vampires desire to be part of the festivities. What begins as a simple request to join in quickly escalates into a hostile takeover, leading to a series of events that unfold throughout the film. In the end, Sammie emerges as the sole human survivor of the night at the juke joint, opting to leave town and pursue a career as a renowned blues musician.
Fast forward to 1992, where an older Sammie (portrayed by real-life Chicago guitarist Buddy Guy) encounters two familiar faces – Stack and his girlfriend Mary (Hailee Steinfeld), who were turned into vampires in 1932 and left town before the rest perished in the sunlight. Despite Stack’s promise to leave Sammie alone, the ageless pair reappear to check on the preacher boy. They offer to turn him into a vampire so he can continue playing music forever, but Sammie declines the offer and bids them farewell with a nostalgic blues performance.
Director and writer Ryan Coogler shared insights into the emotionally charged scene, where Michael B. Jordan’s character, Stack, interacts with Sammie in a pivotal moment. Coogler reflected on the scene as a poignant reminder of his personal connection to the film, describing it as a way to honor his late uncle. The overarching theme of loss resonates throughout “Sinners,” with various characters grappling with recent or longstanding bereavement. The narrative of Smoke, his estranged wife Annie, and their deceased daughter adds layers of emotional depth to the storyline, reflecting Coogler’s own experiences with grief and remembrance.
“Sinners” is not only a cinematic exploration of supernatural elements and musical heritage but a heartfelt homage to Coogler’s family history. The protagonist’s journey through music and loss mirrors the director’s process of healing and remembrance, channeling the spirit of his late uncle through the blues music that once connected them. As the film delves into the intertwining narratives of its characters, it underscores the power of music to transcend time and space, bringing loved ones closer even in their absence.