Sinners: The music scenes in this horror movie are masterclasses in storytelling, here's why

Ryan Coogler's latest horror film, Sinners, which is widely loved by critics and audiences alike, is not a typical horror flick at all. Yes, it has its supernatural elements, but it is far beyond the usual, predictable heebie-jeebies.

Based on a specific historical and socio-political context, the story is set in Mississippi in 1932, during the period when Jim Crow laws in the United States were at their peak. So, apart from its authentic visuals and the contextual storytelling, what also plays an important part in its narration lies in its earnest music. In fact, music is the crux of the storyline of Sinners, among many others.

Let us take a deep dive into the imperative role music plays in the storyline of Sinners.

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for Sinners. Reader discretion is advised.

How does music play a vital role in the storytelling of Sinners?

Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson created the original score of Sinners. The music of the film incorporates genres of blues and folk music into the soundscape of the film.

The story follows the plot of a twin-brother duo, Smoke and Stack, who, together, are trying to begin a new chapter in the Mississippi Delta after leaving their criminal past behind. They aspire to open a juke joint, where their cousin Sammie, a gifted blues musician, performs in the space.

Sammie's music is magical, beautiful, and otherworldly. In fact, his music is shown to have the power to awaken dead spirits as well. Therefore, his musical talent attracts the attention of an Irish vampire named Remmick, who wishes to use Sammie's music for his motives.

Sammie's music is unique in his own identity, his people, and his lineage. But there are opportunistic and diabolical people around him from privileged communities who are striving to take it away from him for their interests.

The peak brilliance of Ryan Coogler's vision is showcased in this particular use of metaphor. This supernatural element is a significant allegory of the historical exploitation of marginalized communities when it comes to their art and culture. For years, it has been a well-known fact that oppressor communities have been robbing and claiming the art and culture of the marginalized communities to date.

As a result, Remmick uses violence to hijack the Juke Joint to gain what he aims for. However, towards the end, Remmick does meet his defeat, and Sammie goes on to become a renowned blues musician, where the whole world gets to experience his work.

Blues is a genre of music that is unique to black history, culture, and politics. It came into existence around the 1860s. Blues music has had a significant impact on the world of music, as it has impacted the development of several other genres, including Rhythm and Blues, Rock, Country Music, and Jazz. The music in this genre is poignant and meaningful, which reflects the history and the emotions that have seeped into the community for years.

Interestingly, a large chunk of the original score of Sinners was created on the particular guitar, a 1932 Dobro Cyclops resonator, that Sammie uses in the film, as revealed in a conversation with Variety by Ludwig Göransson.

About the significance of the music in the film, Serena Göransson, the executive producer of the music for the film as well as Ludwig's wife, talks in detail to the outlet. She states:

"I want people to recognize that blues is the biggest cultural contribution to America, and to the world. It’s touched every genre of American popular music. I want people to care about the music, and not just listen to rap and hip-hop, but to care about the people who made it, and the people who lived through this moment in history, and who are still creating this music. I want people to care not just about the cultural contribution, but about the influence that they had."

Ludwig Göransson, too, shares his thoughts about the impact he is hoping for the audience to feel after listening to the music in Sinners, as he mentions:

"I want the kids to go home and want to play guitar. Seeing someone like Miles, this 19-year-old guy playing guitar, is something that they can identify with. I think a lot of kids are going to be inspired by this."

Sammie's character in the film is essayed by actor Miles Caton. Along with him, Michael B. Jordan has essayed the roles of the twin Smokestack brothers. In the cast, we also have Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O'Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, and many others.