Written, directed, and produced by American filmmaker Ryan Coogler, “Sinners” released to the public on April 17 this year and follows the “Smoke-Stack” twins who return home to Mississippi to start again, yet discover that a great evil awaits them in their journey. Famous actor Michael B. Jordan plays the role of the twins who then team up with their younger cousin played by Miles Caton as his breakout and first role in the filmmaking industry.

  Despite being his first role, Caton had done a number of things to prepare for this role, such as learning to play guitar, ensuring that it would not be obvious that it was his debut. Caton is no amateur to the performing scene, however. Since he was young, he sang in churches as a part of his family’s deep involvement in gospel music. His experience with gospel music and his understanding of faith and temptation provided him with a strong foundation of portraying his character “Sammie” in the film.

  As well as being the younger cousin to the twins, “Sammie” is a young, blues-loving, aspiring musician who is also the pastor’s son. He is a prodigy in the music industry with a talent for blues guitar and a captivating voice. His father warns him that the blues are supernatural and evil, but the boy is set on leaving town and pursuing a career as a singer and guitarist.

  The twins hosted a grand opening of their newest cash grab, called the “Juke Joint” and needed an artist to perform for their first night. They found their younger cousin’s talent and recruited him to perform that night as it would benefit each of them.

  As the night at the “Juke Joint” progresses, Sammie plays music so powerful that it summons spirits of both African and African-American musicians from the past and the future, highlighting the connection of African music as well as its impact on African-American culture, spanning centuries. However, the partying is cut short when it is soon after revealed that something more sinister was also summoned that night. 

  “Sinners” is a masterpiece though it may only be understood after a second viewing of the film. I would recommend “Sinners” if you are seeking a thrill as well as an amazing storyline to keep you guessing. Overall, “Sinners” is a 9/10