Early Reactions Praise Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ as Spring’s Must-See Vampire Film

NEW YORK, NY — The highly anticipated supernatural thriller “Sinners,” directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews ahead of its theatrical release on April 18. The film, set in the Jim Crow-era 1930s South, revolves around twin brothers—played by Jordan—returning to their hometown and confronting an sinister force.

Critics and attendees of the film’s recent premiere in New York City have described “Sinners” as a smart, sexy, and spooky adventure. Notable writers shared their excitement on social media, highlighting Jordan’s dual performance, the film’s intricate score, and its profound narrative elements.

BJ Colangelo from Slashfilm proclaimed, “Ryan Coogler has solidified his place as one of the greats with #Sinners. As good as you think it’s going to be, it’s better. Scary, sexy, and packed with social commentary.” Meanwhile, Jim Hemphill of Indiewire expressed his enthusiasm, calling it, “easily one of my favorite studio releases of the last 10 years.”

TikTok reviewer Alex Coleman succinctly praised the film, stating, “Sinners is a fucking banger. Coogler, you genius.” Other critics commended the film’s ability to meld music with its narrative. “#Sinners is exactly the vampire film you’d expect from Ryan Coogler. The way he interweaves music to make it its own character is masterful,” noted an unnamed film critic.

Nick L’Barrow from NickFlicksFix expressed his admiration, sharing, “I LOVED #SINNERS! It’s a tense, sensual, transcendent film that is Coogler’s most beautiful-looking film to date. The score is integral to the narrative about the cultural impact of music.” Aaron Neuwirth, another film critic, added, “I had a blast with @SinnersMovie. Far wilder than some may expect. Coogler brings so much style to this blend of specific periods, genres, and Black culture. Best vampire film I’ve seen in years. See it in 70mm IMAX if you can!”

With a reported budget of around $90 million, “Sinners” aims to redefine the vampire genre, incorporating elements of horror and social commentary. The Motion Picture Association has rated the film R for strong bloody violence, sexual content, and language. The ensemble cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, and newcomer Miles Caton, all contributing to the film’s rich storytelling.

The film’s official synopsis reads: “Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.” As anticipation builds, “Sinners” appears poised to become a springtime hit and a noteworthy addition to Coogler’s filmography.