Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ Delves into Horror with Vampires and Twilight Zone Inspiration

Estimated read time 4 min read

Ryan Coogler, known for his work on Black Panther and Creed, is stepping into the horror genre with his latest film, Sinners. The movie, set to release on April 18, stars Michael B. Jordan as twin brothers who return to their hometown to find an even greater evil waiting for them. Coogler has revealed that the film is heavily influenced by American blues music and hoodoo culture, drawing parallels with the story of Robert Johnson. Additionally, the film is inspired by an underrated episode of The Twilight Zone, titled The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank. This genre-fluid horror film promises to be a unique blend of scares and emotional depth.

Ryan Coogler, the acclaimed director behind “Black Panther” and “Creed,” is making his first foray into the horror genre with his latest film, “Sinners.” The movie, set to release on April 18, promises to be a genre-fluid experience that blends elements of horror, drama, and mystery. Starring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role, “Sinners” follows twin brothers who return to their hometown to start anew but find themselves entangled in a supernatural evil.
Coogler has revealed that the film is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from his ancestral history and his uncle James, who was from Mississippi. The director has also mentioned the significant influence of American blues music and hoodoo culture on the film. This is evident in the character’s association with the devil and the contrast between a secular lifestyle and the supernatural elements.
Moreover, “Sinners” is heavily influenced by classic horror films and television shows. Coogler has cited John Carpenter, Robert Rodriguez’s “The Faculty,” and Stephen King’s “’Salem’s Lot” as major influences. The film also draws inspiration from an underrated episode of “The Twilight Zone,” titled “The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank.” This episode, written and directed by Montgomery Pittman, is a significant influence on the film’s narrative and themes.
The cast of “Sinners” includes Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, and Delroy Lindo. The film is produced by Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian, and Ryan Coogler himself, with Ludwig Göransson, Will Greenfield, and Rebecca Cho serving as executive producers.
Coogler’s behind-the-camera artisans include his “Black Panther” franchise collaborators: director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Oscar-winning production designer Hannah Beachler, editor Michael P. Shawver, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter.


1. What is the release date of Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners”?
Answer: April 18, 2025.

2. Who is starring in “Sinners”?
Answer: Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, and Delroy Lindo.

3. What is the genre of “Sinners”?
Answer: Horror, with elements of drama and mystery.

4. What are the main influences on “Sinners”?
Answer: American blues music, hoodoo culture, John Carpenter, Robert Rodriguez’s “The Faculty,” Stephen King’s “’Salem’s Lot,” and an episode of “The Twilight Zone” titled “The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank.”

5. Why is “Sinners” a personal project for Ryan Coogler?
Answer: The film is inspired by Coogler’s ancestral history and his relationship with his uncle James from Mississippi.

6. Who are the producers of “Sinners”?
Answer: Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian, and Ryan Coogler.

7. What is the significance of the vampire in “Sinners”?
Answer: The vampire represents a supernatural creature associated with seduction and choice, drawing parallels with various cultures and the story of Robert Johnson.

8. Who are the behind-the-camera artisans for “Sinners”?
Answer: Autumn Durald Arkapaw (director of photography), Hannah Beachler (production designer), Michael P. Shawver (editor), Ludwig Göransson (composer), and Ruth E. Carter (costume designer).

9. What is the setting of “Sinners”?
Answer: The film takes place in the hometown of the twin brothers, where they return to start anew.

10. What is the unique aspect of “Sinners”?
Answer: The film is genre-fluid, blending elements of horror, drama, and mystery in a unique way.


Ryan Coogler’s Sinners promises to be a groundbreaking horror film that blends personal history, cultural influences, and classic horror elements. With a star-studded cast and a talented crew, Sinners is set to deliver a unique and thrilling experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.


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