Director Ryan Coogler has done it again — and this time, with a genre-bending horror thriller that’s making cinematic history. His latest film, Sinners, has shattered expectations, earning a rare A CinemaScore from audiences and a massive 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the best-reviewed horror films in recent memory.
A Record-Breaking Debut
Sinners opened to a thunderous response at the global box office, raking in $45.6 million domestically and $61 million worldwide during its opening weekend. In doing so, it dethroned A Minecraft Movie and became the highest-grossing debut for a non-franchise film since the pandemic era — a staggering feat for an original concept film.
What makes this even more remarkable is that Sinners is the first horror movie in over 35 years to receive an A grade from CinemaScore, a trusted industry metric that surveys opening-night audiences. Horror films rarely reach this level of audience satisfaction, solidifying Sinners as a breakout hit.
Critics and Audiences Alike Are Enthralled
Beyond its commercial success, Sinners has received glowing reviews from critics. The film currently holds a 98% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its genre-defying narrative, compelling characters, and immersive visual style. Audience reactions mirror that enthusiasm, with a 97% verified audience score, indicating widespread appeal across all demographics.
A Supernatural Southern Gothic Tale
Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack, both played by Michael B. Jordan, who return home to start a jazz-era nightclub with stolen money. However, their ambitions spiral into darkness when a seductive vampire enters their lives, bringing with her chaos and bloodlust.
The film’s ensemble cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Delroy Lindo, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Benson Miller, and Li Jun Li — each delivering nuanced performances that elevate the film beyond traditional horror tropes.
A Genre-Leaping Masterstroke from Coogler
Known for his acclaimed films Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther, Coogler once again proves his versatility with Sinners. The film blends horror, historical drama, supernatural folklore, and Southern Gothic themes to create a rich, emotionally charged cinematic experience. Critics have hailed it as one of his boldest and most inventive films to date.
With its critical acclaim, box office success, and groundbreaking audience reception, Sinners isn’t just a hit — it’s a cultural moment.
