Hailee Steinfeld’s Role Shakes Up Film Industry in ‘Sinners’

LOS ANGELES, California — The release of the supernatural thriller Sinners has captivated audiences and critics alike since its debut on April 18, 2025. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film blends horror with poignant drama, featuring a story about vampires in a racially divided town in 1930s Mississippi.

The lead role of Mary is portrayed by Hailee Steinfeld, whose transformative performance has been widely praised. In a recent interview, Steinfeld expressed how the character’s journey of self-discovery resonates with her own background. “This movie brought me closer to my roots in ways I never expected. It gave me a hunger to understand where I come from,” she said, reflecting on her mixed heritage.

Steinfeld’s maternal grandfather, Ricardo Domasin, was of Filipino and African American descent, a lineage she explored more deeply through her role. Critics have lauded Sinners for its genre-fluid approach, combining horror and social commentary. One reviewer noted, “She’s not just playing a character; she’s channeling a story that’s been buried for generations.”

Mary’s personal journey mirrors themes of grief and identity, particularly after her mother’s death. The film also features an original score by composer Ludwig Göransson, blending blues and folk music that enhances the narrative’s emotional depth. Steinfeld contributed a song titled “Dangerous,” marking her first original track in two years.

A standout scene where Steinfeld’s character declares, “We gone kill every last one of ya,” has sparked significant attention on social media. The chemistry between Steinfeld and co-stars, particularly Michael B. Jordan, who plays twins Smoke and Stack, adds intrigue and complexity to the film.

Despite its horror elements, the emotional resonance has struck a chord with audiences. Delroy Lindo, another cast member, highlighted the role of music in the story, saying, “Honestly, I didn’t have a huge appreciation for it until working on this film. It’s foundational to the story we’re telling.” Wunmi Mosaku echoed this sentiment, speaking about the moving experience of watching musical scenes unfold on set.

The film’s box office success reflects its ability to engage viewers in discussions about its themes. Critics assert that Sinners offers a fresh perspective on the vampire genre while exploring deeper societal issues.

Steinfeld’s journey in portraying Mary has sparked additional reflections, as she noted, “There were days I walked off set and cried not because I was scared of the horror, but because the history felt so real. The pain. The resilience. The silence.” This powerful connection adds authenticity to her performance.

The potential for a sequel has emerged as a topic of speculation, with the film’s ending leaving room for further exploration of Mary’s character and her relationships, particularly with Stack, who is one of the few confirmed survivors.

As Sinners continues to spark conversations, audiences are found not just watching a horror film but engaging with a narrative that challenges perceptions and reflects personal and collective histories. “I feel changed by this experience,” Steinfeld said, emphasizing the profound impact it has had on her life. “It opened doors in my mind and my heart that I didn’t even know were locked.” This connection to her heritage makes Sinners a must-see film that transcends traditional genre boundaries.