Ryan Coogler’s new directorial effort, Sinners, has stormed into theaters, earning a whopping $63.5 million globally in its debut weekend. The vampire-horror drama is now the highest domestic opening ever for an original film this decade, setting a new benchmark for genre-transcending cinema.
A New Twist on Vampires with Heart and Depth
Sinners has received acclaim for its unapologetic reinterpretation of vampire mythology. Combining horror with deep social commentary, the movie incorporates stories of oppression, religion, music history, and family histories. The highlight performance by Michael B. Jordan, coupled with breathtaking cinematography and thrilling visuals, has resonated with viewers and critics alike.
Its showbiz charm, as well as references to movies such as From Dusk Till Dawn, has generated awards momentum, with people thinking the picture may be one of the awards season contenders.
#Sinners officially opens to $63.5M at the worldwide box office
Biggest domestic opening this decade for an original filmpic.twitter.com/epHHo1q3rY
— Culture Crave (@CultureCrave) April 21, 2025
Mixed Responses: Overrated or Underrated Masterpiece
With the praise, though, Sinners has not remained immune to negative criticism. Others have criticized that the dialogue and humor fell flat, describing them as “overrated.” Debates have also arisen regarding a lack of representation of Latinos within the film, particularly considering it has obvious thematic roots in Latin-American folklore and culture.
Also Read: The Sinners Effect: Horror Film Smashes Records, Makes $60 Million In Weeks
Audiences are also arguing if the movie’s dense story with sacrificial sequences and vampire fight scenes laced with spiritual conflict could have been done better as a serialized series rather than a single movie.
Post your Letterboxd review of Sinners ❤️ pic.twitter.com/wuM9NnHX38
— Letterboxd (@letterboxd) April 21, 2025
A Conversation Starter Culturally
Whether praised as a work of genius or lambasted for lost chances, Sinners has certainly begun a broader cultural debate. Through its daring subject matter and box office appeal, it has carved out its position as one of the most talked-about movies of 2025.
