Few filmmakers possess a track record as impressive as Ryan Coogler. Not only has he maintained a flawless slate of films, but he consistently delivers works of profound greatness, even in the face of substantial challenges. Coogler redefined the Rocky franchise by shifting the narrative focus to a new underdog, and he crafted a sequel to a historic Best Picture nominee while rewriting much of the material after the tragic loss of his leading man. Each film he delivers captivates audiences with its entertainment value, emotional depth, and compelling themes.
Like the legendary Steven Spielberg, Coogler demonstrates his mastery across various genres. Whether he’s delving into sports dramas, superhero epics, or blending crime with supernatural elements, he remains a visual storyteller dedicated to exploring the nuances of human experience and universal sentiments. His collaborative efforts with actor Michael B. Jordan have led to five outstanding films, showcasing everything from the visually stunning Black Panther series to the emotionally gripping Fruitvale Station. Coogler’s creative journey perfectly illustrates his vision and storytelling prowess.
5 Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Although many regard Black Panther: Wakanda Forever as one of Coogler’s less strong offerings, it still stands out as a highlight within the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s often uneven Phase Four. Few films have faced the same challenges as this sequel, which had to pivot dramatically following the untimely passing of Chadwick Boseman. Coogler was compelled to overhaul the film to shift the narrative focus toward T’Challa’s sister, Shuri, ultimately crafting a tribute that resonated deeply with both filmmakers and audiences alike.
Instead of attempting to sidestep Boseman’s legacy, Coogler transformed the collective grief into a poignant homage. The film opens with the people of Wakanda mourning their late king, creating a powerful emotional backdrop. While some elements, like the climax featuring underwater flooding, might have benefited from a tighter execution, Wakanda Forever introduces a compelling antagonist in Namor while remaining a heartfelt tribute to Boseman.
4 Black Panther
With the original Black Panther released in 2018, Coogler marked Marvel Studios’ first entry into the Best Picture nominations. This film not only solidified T’Challa as a key figure within the MCU but also broke new ground by integrating deeper themes into superhero storytelling. Unlike many comic book adaptations, Black Panther serves as a compelling commentary on colonialism, presenting the complex character of Erik Killmonger as both a formidable villain and a character driven by a valid perspective.
Minor flaws prevent Black Panther from claiming the absolute top tier of Coogler’s filmography. The climactic battle between T’Challa and Killmonger feels less impactful than their initial encounter due to reliance on CGI, and the fight sequence tends to follow a formulaic pattern. Nevertheless, this film stands as one of the most significant superhero cinema achievements, proving that Marvel can transcend typical blockbuster fare to deliver stories rich in mythological resonance.
3 Sinners
Image via Warner Bros.
Coogler’s recent work, Sinners, stands as one of his most ambitious and original projects to date. In a fashion reminiscent of Everything Everywhere All at Once, it seamlessly blends multiple genres: gangster drama, horror, musical, and historical narrative set in the Jim Crow era. The film follows twin gangsters returning to their Mississippi hometown to open a juke joint, creating a captivating premise that could engage without the supernatural element.
Not only is Sinners visually stunning, but it also provides rich emotional and thematic depth. It extends beyond mere genre entertainment to thoughtfully examine issues of racism, mortality, and artistic expression. Coogler’s creative team — including cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, composer Ludwig Göransson, and production designer Hannah Beachler — delivers an authentic depiction of 1930s Mississippi. This original blockbuster showcases Coogler’s extraordinary imagination, solidifying it as a modern masterpiece.
2 Creed
With the release of Creed in 2015, Coogler successfully revitalized the long-running Rocky franchise and sparked a trend for legacy sequels. Introducing Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, the film presents a young fighter preparing for his professional debut while struggling to forge his own identity. In many ways, Creed retells Rocky’s narrative but offers a fresh perspective, focusing on the weight of legacy that Adonis must bear.
Although the film adheres closely to the classic sports movie blueprint—featuring a world-renowned opponent, iconic training montages, and an emotional final showdown—it ultimately exemplifies why such formulas resonate with audiences. Adonis’s journey emphasizes universal themes of overcoming adversity and confronting self-doubt, making it relatable beyond the confines of the boxing ring. Coogler emphasizes that these stories are more than competitions; they encapsulate profound explorations of love, identity, and resilience.
1 Fruitvale Station
Although Coogler has consistently produced exceptional films, his debut, Fruitvale Station, remains his finest accomplishment. This poignant film recounts the tragic true story of Oscar Grant, a 22-year-old Black man murdered by a police officer. Michael B. Jordan’s nuanced performance as Grant not only established a collaborative relationship with Coogler that continues to this day but also sheds light on the alarming issue of police brutality and systemic racism in America.
Instead of fixating on the violent act itself, Fruitvale Station humanizes Grant, serving as a deep character exploration. By portraying the final day of his life—highlighting relationships with his family and documenting his struggles—Coogler emphasizes the importance of personal background amid wider societal issues. Grant’s complexities are reflected poignantly, showcasing him as a multidimensional human being. Coogler has since ventured into diverse storytelling, yet Fruitvale Station endures as the hallmark of his exceptional directorial style.