Michael B. Jordan is poised to star in the highly anticipated period horror film, Sinners, which is set to hit theaters on April 18, 2025. This intriguing narrative follows twin brothers, brought to life by Jordan himself, who return to their Southern hometown in the 1930s only to confront a lurking, malevolent force. Joining him in this eerie tale are Hailee Steinfeld and Jack O’Connell, under the skilled direction of Ryan Coogler, known for his exceptional work in Creed and Black Panther.
5 Black Panther
For those eager to experience the synergy of Coogler and Jordan before the release of Sinners, starting with Black Panther is an excellent choice. Released in 2018, this superhero epic showcases T’Challa’s journey as he returns to Wakanda to claim his throne following his father’s death. However, he must brace himself against a formidable adversary who threatens his kingship.
While Black Panther and Sinners may seem worlds apart at first glance, they intriguingly intersect on a thematic level. Both films delve into the dynamics of power and its rightful holders, positioning Jordan in roles where violence may be the only means of reclaiming freedom, paralleling his character’s journey in Black Panther.
4 Interview With The Vampire
An Iconic Southern Vampire Movie
For fans drawn to the vampiric elements of Sinners, Interview with the Vampire is a must-watch. This 1994 adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel features Louis, played by Brad Pitt, who is seduced into the world of vampirism by a dark mentor. As Louis grapples with his new existence, he becomes increasingly repulsed by the violence and bloodlust of his maker.
The film connects with Sinners through its depiction of vampires as antagonists. The trailer for Sinners reveals a menacing group of vampires targeting the protagonists, a motif that echoes the themes of darkness and moral conflict found in Interview with the Vampire. This film also sets a richly stylized Southern backdrop, perfectly blending historical contexts with horror elements.
3 Fruitvale Station
Coogler & Jordan’s First Movie Together
Another essential film to view before Sinners is Fruitvale Station, Coogler’s inaugural feature that launched his collaboration with Jordan. This poignant film, based on a true story, follows a young man striving for redemption as he rebuilds his life after incarceration. His ambitions are tragically derailed on New Year’s Eve due to misunderstanding, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion.
While Black Panther allows for grand storytelling, Fruitvale Station cuts to the core of Coogler’s narrative prowess, focusing on systemic issues of race and injustice. This intersection of social commentary and personal tragedy in Sinners mirrors the struggles depicted in Fruitvale Station, making it a vital precursor to Jordan’s burgeoning acting career.
2 Get Out
A Classic Horror Story About Race
No discussion of race and horror would be complete without Get Out. Released in 2017, this chilling film follows Chris, a Black man who visits his white girlfriend’s family, only to uncover sinister truths hidden beneath their polite façade. As Chris grapples with increasingly unsettling occurrences, the film deftly exposes deep-seated racial tensions.
1 Near Dark
A Forgotten Sinners Companion
Lastly, Near Dark, a lesser-known horror gem from 1987, serves as an intriguing companion piece to Sinners. The film centers on Caleb, who falls for Mae, a mysterious woman who leads him into a world of vampires. Caleb faces a harrowing choice between his love for Mae and his humanity as he confronts her horrifying reality.
Despite its relative obscurity, Near Dark boasts an impressive 83% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and artfully intertwines elements of horror, Western, and romance. While it may not delve into racial themes like Sinners, it offers a serious take on vampire lore and genre-blending narratives, making it an excellent precursor to Michael B. Jordan’s upcoming film.