Ryan Coogler Describes His Upcoming Film ‘Sinners’ as ‘Genre Fluid’ — Watch New Trailer

In a virtual press conference held by Warner Bros. Pictures on Tuesday, January 28, filmmaker Ryan Coogler unveiled the latest trailer for his horror thriller “Sinners.” Starring Michael B. Jordan in the dual role of twin brothers Smoke and Stack, the film is set during one day in 1932 and features a whole host of elements that make it a lot more than your traditional vampire flick.

“The film is very genre fluid,” Coogler said (as per The Hollywood Reporter). “It switches in and out of a lot of different genres. Yes, vampires are an element, but it’s not the only supernatural element in the movie. The film is about more than just that.”

He views the supernatural as something intertwined with the spiritual, with “Sinners” contrasting the religious fervor shared in the light with the subversive blues culture of the time explored in the dark. In making the film, Coogler was even able to connect with a personal history he’s very far removed from.

“It’s a world that my grandparents were a part of. A time that is overlooked in American history,” he said, adding later, “I’m blessed to have found this medium that I can work out deep philosophical and existential questions that I may be struggling with while contributing to an art form that means so much to my family. Each film brings me closer to understanding myself and the world around me.”

Moreover, the “Black Panther” writer/director is excited to share a piece of big, original cinema made for congregating around.

“It’s a love letter to the experience of watching an exhilarating movie in a packed house full of strangers, not knowing what’s going to happen next,” said Coogler. He added later, “So many incredible films have given me that feeling, so I wanted to try my hand at given it back to audiences.”

Coogler reunited with “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” DP Autumn Durald Arkapaw for “Sinners,” as well as Ludwig Göransson, who composed the score. Featured alongside the two Jordans, the rest of the cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Li Jun Li, Jayme Lawson, Wunmi Mosaku, Omar Benson Miller, Jack O’Connell, and Delroy Lindo. Watch the new trailer below.

“Sinners” releases in theaters on April 18 from Warner Bros. Pictures.