Ryan Coogler made it clear that having Sinners shot on film was a non-negotiable aspect before agreeing to direct the hit horror movie, which debuted to critical acclaim and remarkable box office success. With Michael B. Jordan leading the cast, Sinners not only draws attention for its story and performances but also for Coogler’s firm stance on using traditional celluloid, a choice seldom seen in today’s digital-dominated filmmaking.
The Critical Decision Behind Shooting Sinners on Film
Ryan Coogler revealed in a recent interview that the primary condition for taking on Sinners was ensuring the film would be shot on actual film stock. This creative choice set the tone for a unique viewing experience, as audiences today are surrounded by digital imagery. Featuring stars such as Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Wunmi Mosaku, Miles Caton, Jack O’Connell, Delroy Lindo, Li Jun Li, Jayme Lawson, and Omar Miller, Sinners marked a major collaboration under Warner Bros. and has quickly become a milestone both critically and commercially.
The film follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack, played by Michael B. Jordan, who return to their Mississippi Delta hometown to open a juke joint, only to confront an outbreak of vampires on opening night. This gripping horror-action narrative is amplified by a strong ensemble cast and Coogler’s trademark direction.
Sinners’ Achievements and Oscar Buzz
Since its release, Sinners has earned nearly $368 million worldwide, an exceptional figure for an R-rated, original production in the horror genre. Its near-universal praise has positioned it as a likely favorite for the 2026 Oscars, with major buzz for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actor, among other awards. There is also strong anticipation of a Best Cinematography nomination, with Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another and Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet as principal competitors in this season’s race.
Coogler Explains His Artistic Choice
When discussing his insistence on the Ryan Coogler Sinners shot on film approach, Coogler conveyed his perspective in detail:
“I think, look, the non-negotiables were, number one was that it would be shot on film. That was a big one. I was probably, out of all of them, that was the one that I think was the most important. The average person in a day is going to interact with like, I got to imagine, hundreds, if not thousands of digital images. We’re so used to the digital image that when you see something that was captured with celluloid, it feels different.”
– Ryan Coogler, Director
Coogler’s insistence resulted in simultaneous filming on both Ultra Panavision 70mm and IMAX 70mm, setting Sinners apart both visually and emotionally from other contemporary releases. This dedication to the cinematic craft is a significant part of why Sinners resonated with critics and audiences alike.
Continuing Collaborations and Future Projects
Sinners extends the creative relationship between Coogler and Michael B. Jordan, previously seen in films like Fruitvale Station, the Creed franchise, and Black Panther. Despite many recent films struggling at the box office post-pandemic, Sinners broke through these challenges, serving as a testament to both collaborators’ combined vision and perseverance.
Looking ahead, Ryan Coogler is confirmed to be working on Black Panther 3 and has plans for a reboot of The X-Files. However, before turning to these ventures, Sinners is expected to see a theatrical re-release ahead of the Oscars, offering the public another chance to experience the film’s distinctive visuals and artistry influenced by shooting on film.
Main Cast of Sinners
The central cast of Sinners is filled with acclaimed actors who bring depth and complexity to their roles:
Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers Smoke and Stack, anchoring the movie’s emotional and narrative core with dual performances. Hailee Steinfeld joins as Mary, contributing a pivotal role to the evolving story in the Mississippi Delta. The ensemble is rounded out by talents such as Wunmi Mosaku, Miles Caton, Jack O’Connell, Delroy Lindo, Li Jun Li, Jayme Lawson, and Omar Miller.
Why Sinners’ Artistic Approach Matters
Ryan Coogler’s decision to insist on the Ryan Coogler Sinners shot on film method has underpinned the movie’s singular feel, providing an immersive and textured quality rarely found in digital productions. With Sinners poised for major industry awards and a renewed presence in theaters, Coogler’s vision continues to push boundaries in modern filmmaking, reinforcing the ongoing impact of artistry in an era defined by rapid digital change.
