12 Best Movies Like Sinners

Spending an entire day and night wouldn’t be enough to fully appreciate the incredible qualities of director Ryan Coogler’s groundbreaking film “Sinners.” The movie has become a cultural sensation due to its remarkable performances, stunning visuals captured on 70mm film that remain indelible, and its breathtaking musical sequences that leave you astounded. What makes this film truly exhilarating is its unique and innovative approach.

In American cinema, the film titled “Sinners” represents something entirely fresh and unique. It stands apart from anything seen before it, despite sharing elements with popular genres such as vampire films and musicals. Despite being a singular masterpiece, there are other movies out there that share similar atmospheres which are highly recommended for viewing.

Hey there fellow gaming enthusiast! If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the gritty world of “Sinners,” here’s a list of 12 movies from across the globe that resonate with its spirit. These movies are fantastic companions for fans like us, offering numerous reasons to enjoy them: Some share cast or crew members who were instrumental in bringing Coogler’s film to life, while others blend horror and music genres or delve into vampire lore. Others still capture the essential Mississippi vibe that’s central to “Sinners.” No matter their unique qualities, these 12 movies make for a perfect pairing when you’re ready to dive back into the world of “Sinners” again!

Fruitvale Station

Ryan Coogler’s film “Fruitvale Station,” released in 2013, has significantly boosted his recognition. This independent movie portrays a day in the life of Oscar Grant (played by Michael B. Jordan) in Oakland, California. In actuality, this man became globally known in the early hours of 2009 when he was fatally shot by a police officer. Prior to his unfortunate death, Grant was simply an ordinary person striving to balance life and be a good father.

In “Fruitvale Station”, Ryan Coogler’s ability to make even ordinary conversations in the movie captivating was evident, especially considering this was an early work. The slow-paced narrative allowed the subtleties of Grant’s life (and Jordan Peele’s nuanced performance) to resonate deeply. This same quality also made the tragic ending all the more impactful. It’s clear that Coogler’s directorial abilities were already sharpened significantly by “Fruitvale Station”, even before he started working on major studio productions.

Near Dark

If you’re yearning for more chaos involving Southern vampires after “True Blood,” then the 1987 film “Near Dark” by Kathryn Bigelow could satisfy that craving and even exceed expectations. The narrative revolves around Caleb Colton, a typical guy who is turned into a vampire by the captivating Mae. Subsequently, he’s compelled to join Mae’s motley crew of vampires, with Bill Paxton portraying Severen, a character you won’t forget anytime soon. As Caleb immerses himself in the world of vampires, he finds himself torn between his human life and this decadent, supernatural residence.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but sing praises for Paxton’s mesmerizing performance in “Near Dark”. His infectious energy and captivating presence make this movie an absolute must-watch. Known for pouring his heart and soul into every role he takes on, Paxton’s work here is one of the finest examples of that talent.

But what truly sets “Near Dark” apart is director Bigelow’s masterful blend of various genres – horror, passionate romances, and Westerns. The result is a rural vampire tale like no other, a unique blend that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Top it off with some impressive practical effects and a blood-soaked spectacle, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Bigelow may have won her Oscars with heavy-hitting dramas such as “The Hurt Locker,” but it’s in films like “Near Dark” that she truly shines as an artist. Don’t hesitate to indulge in this early forerunner of the atmospheric vampire cinema found in “Sinners.

Let the Right One In

12-year-old Oskar’s life is tough, but it becomes even more difficult when he befriends Eli, who is secretly a vampire. Directors Tomas Alfredson and screenwriter John Ajvide Lindqvist skillfully blend the struggles of adolescence with a thrilling vampire tale in “Let the Right One In.” This unusual mix proves to be powerful, particularly because Alfredson excels at building tension. The movie serves as a raw portrayal of youth hardships and a chilling vampire story all at once.

The movie “Let the Right One In,” set in Swedish landscapes blanketed with snow, offers a unique blend of fear, juxtaposing grisly bloodstains against everyday suburban settings. This 2008 film is not only packed with spine-tingling horror but also serves as an impressive visual experience, thanks to the expert lens work by cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema. Before his work on “Oppenheimer” and “Nope,” Hoytema showcased his talents in the captivating imagery and camera techniques seen throughout “Let the Right One In.

His visuals are unsettling yet deeply empathetic, always maintaining a youthful, vulnerable viewpoint that steers the narrative. A pivotal scene, depicting Oskar in a school swimming pool as dismembered limbs fall around him, encapsulates this style perfectly. This heart-wrenching coming-of-age tale consistently offers striking, indelible images, along with an eerie ambiance that lingers long after viewing.

His House

Wunmi Mosaku’s most significant on-screen achievement thus far is playing the character Annie in “Sinners.” In this role, she delivers an exceptional performance, serving as the main protagonist and emotional core of the movie. Her portrayal leaves a lasting impression on viewers. Interestingly, this isn’t her debut in leading a captivating horror film production.

Wunmi Mosaku’s most significant acting role yet is Annie in “Sinners.” She does a fantastic job as the main character and emotional backbone of the movie, making it particularly moving. However, she’s also previously starred as the lead in another chilling horror film.

Prior to the release of “Sinners,” Mosaku starred as Rial in “His House.” In this film, she and her husband Bol (played by Sope Dirisu) were compelled to escape from South Sudan and eventually find themselves with meager asylum accommodations in London. The movie follows their arduous journey adapting to their new environment, while they are repeatedly haunted by strange supernatural events. Remarkably, director Remi Weekes guides “His House” into a visually unique realm, yet maintains focus on the deeply personal and authentic struggles that Bol and Rial face in their daily lives.

In many horror movies that aim for deep themes, they often abandon their larger story arcs in favor of jump scares and predictable violence during the final act. However, “His House” manages to blend deep character development with unsettling chaos seamlessly. The climax is just as effective on an emotional level as it is at delivering horror movie staples. What sets “His House” apart is its innovative exploration of what truly terrifies us in the horror genre, largely due to Mosaku’s mesmerizing performance. Her talent, evident in her previous work in “Sinners,” was evident from the very beginning in “His House.

Nosferatu

“Nosferatu” follows a well-worn story path, as it is both a remake of the 1920s F.W. Murnau film and deeply inspired by Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” Despite numerous adaptations of this familiar tale, “Nosferatu” remains chilling and dismal due to Robert Eggers’ masterful handling of atmosphere. In his 2024 version of the story, Eggers brings a darker, more intense feel with an abundance of gritty details.

Before the arrival of the ominous Count Orlok (played by Bill Skarsgard), Ellen’s (Lily-Rose Depp) everyday life in Germany is filled with troubles and limitations. Striking compositions and complex visual layers are present even in the most ordinary scenes, making them all the more striking when Count Orlok’s influence intensifies.

In simple terms, stunning scenes of Nicholas Hoult as Thomas Hutter traversing a frozen, forested landscape in search of Orlok’s castle are breathtakingly beautiful and will leave you amazed. The film also showcases exceptional acting, with Willem Dafoe delivering powerful performances. The sound design is meticulously crafted, filled with eerie sounds that send shivers down your spine. Every aspect of “Nosferatu” is infused with such unique creativity that all previous versions of the story fade away. Similar to “Sinners,” “Nosferatu” is a captivating tale of vampires that creates something fresh from a deep artistic heritage.

Only Lovers Left Alive

Many people find themselves deeply attracted to the film “Sinners,” with its captivating vampire characters portrayed by Jack O’Connell and Hailee Steinfeld being a significant draw. These seductive villains have become popular crushes across various groups of fans. If you’re yearning for more tantalizing vampires, don’t search any longer; immerse yourself in the career-defining performances of Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston as they engage in steamy escapades in Jim Jarmusch’s “Only Lovers Left Alive.

The 2013 movie focuses on the undead couple Eve (Swinton) and Adam (Hiddleston), who ponder their place in today’s world. Although they’ve existed for millennia, being a vampire in the 21st century has become increasingly difficult, as even human blood is now often tainted.

In ‘Only Lovers Left Alive,’ the leisurely pace invites viewers to unwind and be captivated by the irresistible charm of Hiddleston and Swinton. Unlike some actors who struggle carrying a film, these leads in ‘Only Lovers Left Alive’ are exceptional. The characters they portray are an aged couple so familiar with each other, even with a supernatural twist as vampires. The stellar performances by Mia Wasikowska, Anton Yelchin, Jeffrey Wright, and John Hurt add to the delight of watching this movie. Prepare yourself for your next set of vampire infatuations with all that ‘Only Lovers Left Alive’ has in store.

Judas and the Black Messiah

Ryan Coogler didn’t produce his first project in 2021; that was “Judas and the Black Messiah.” This film tells the story of William O’Neal (played by LaKeith Stanfield), an FBI informant who infiltrated the Chicago chapter of the Black Panthers, led by activist Fred Hampton (Daniel Kaluuya). To gain his freedom, O’Neal collaborated with FBI agents like Roy Mitchell (Jesse Plemons) to implement a plan that ultimately resulted in the brutal murder of Hampton, who was only 21 years old. The FBI viewed Hampton as their foremost enemy due to his messages promoting power for the working class and unity among all Americans.

Director Shaka King’s movie-making style is vibrant and captivatingly current, even though it’s set in a historical period. It doesn’t merely rehash old stories, but instead seems like a dynamic, real-time event for viewers. The intense emotional depth displayed by Daniel Kaluuya and Dominique Fishback (who portrays Deborah Johnson, Hampton’s girlfriend) significantly contributes to this effect. Additionally, the nuanced details in King and Will Berson’s script play a crucial role. In essence, “Judas and the Black Messiah” is not just a gripping historical thriller; it also showcases Ryan Coogler preparing to foster emerging filmmaking talents.

Phantom of the Paradise

Ryan Coogler’s inspiration for “Sinners” includes Brian De Palma, a renowned director who has produced gripping thrillers such as “Blow Out,” “Mission: Impossible,” and “The Untouchables.” Known for crafting intense, suspenseful environments, De Palma’s work in popular cinema is highly respected. Coogler’s “Sinners” not only follows this tradition but surpasses it in its execution.

For fans of films directed by Brian De Palma, particularly those eagerly awaiting a new release in 2025, “Phantom of the Paradise” from 1974 serves as an excellent counterpart to Ryan Coogler’s classic. This film blends various genres such as horror, satire, and musicals, telling the story of Winslow Leach (William Finley), a songwriter who, after being wronged by a music mogul, transforms into the Phantom and haunts a rock concert venue to exact revenge. The mogul, played by Paul Williams, had stolen his music and attempted to have him eliminated.

In “Phantom of the Paradise,” there’s a wealth of detail that can’t be captured in a single summary. It offers romantic subplots, stunning costumes, and over-the-top musical performances. Just like “Sinners,” this film delivers an abundance of imagination and fun that surpasses most movies. Notably, it features musician Paul Williams as the cunning personification of evil, a role unique in movie history. If you’re looking for a 92-minute snapshot of De Palma’s creativity that caught Coogler’s attention, give “Phantom of the Paradise” a watch – it’s one of the best rock and roll movies ever made.

Down in the Delta

Before the arrival of “Sinners”, the cinematic legacy of Mississippi was already impressive, boasting a diverse array of films that captured the essence of this unique region. From “The Beguiled” and “Mississippi Masala” to “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”, these movies showcased Mississippi’s distinctive culture and landscapes in compelling narratives. If “Sinners” has left you hungry for more Mississippi cinema, consider checking out an often overlooked gem, “Down in the Delta”.

Under the guidance of poet and author Maya Angelou, the 1998 film unfolds, focusing on Loretta (Alfre Woodard), a troubled addict and single mother, along with her two children, as they journey to Mississippi to stay with Uncle Earl (Al Freeman Jr.). The narrative evolves into a poignant melodrama, subtly illustrating the process of personal growth and discovering solace in unforeseen locales. While the plot may seem familiar on paper, it’s the nuanced details that truly bring this production to life. For example, Angelou’s heartfelt and textured portrayal of Mississippi landscapes breathes life into the story, and each rural Southern scene is imbued with a delicate sense of authenticity.

The intricate settings are matched by an array of incredibly nuanced performances from actors such as Woodard and Wesley Snipes. Their portrayals are heartfelt and genuine, making heavy emotional scenes feel authentic. Although it’s not as well-known, “Down in the Delta” is worthy of greater acclaim, especially within the realm of Mississippi filmmaking that “Sinners” complements.

BlacKkKlansman

Similar to Brian De Palma, Spike Lee is another renowned filmmaker who significantly impacted Ryan Coogler’s creative direction for “Sinners.” Although De Palma has ventured into unconventional territories like his 2014 vampire movie “Da Sweet Blood of Jesus,” a crucial watch in his filmography, a standout title from Lee is the 2018 film “BlacKkKlansman,” which earned this distinguished director his long-awaited Oscar.

In the 1970s, the narrative unfolds around Ron Stallworth (John David Washington), the pioneering first Black police officer in Colorado Springs. He devises a daring strategy to penetrate and dismantle a local Ku Klux Klan chapter. A crucial aspect of this operation involves him assuming the identity of a new Klansman, collaborating with his colleague, Detective Philip “Flip” Zimmerman (Adam Driver), in this undercover role.

Lee is well-known for his powerful dialogue, yet “BlacKkKlansman” also emphasizes his exceptional visual storytelling ability. Scenes such as the close-ups of audience members’ faces against a black backdrop while watching a speech by civil rights activist Kwame Ture (Corey Hawkins) are just one example among many striking images found throughout the film. Additionally, Lee’s script shines as an engaging and thought-provoking crime thriller – viewers are treated to both impactful, uplifting scenes and poignant observations about how American prejudice in the past and present can be difficult to tell apart.

Just Mercy

The tremendous earnings at the box office for “Sinners” firmly establishes Michael B. Jordan as a bona fide film star. Although Jordan’s fame has been undeniable for more than ten years, there was some question about whether he could attract audiences like Leonardo DiCaprio, Denzel Washington, and Sandra Bullock do, especially in an original movie not tied to the “Rocky” or Marvel Studios franchises. With the success of “Sinners,” Jordan has joined their elite group of contemporary cinema heavyweights.

Before the release of “Sinners,” Michael B. Jordan showcased his talent for anchoring mature-themed series with the 2019 courtroom drama “Just Mercy.” Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, this film portrays Bryan Stevenson (played by Jordan) as he journeys to Alabama to assist prisoners in navigating a flawed legal system. Among his clients is Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), a Death Row inmate who maintains his innocence amidst murder accusations.

Just Mercy” doesn’t fundamentally alter the structure or visual style of traditional courtroom dramas, but it showcases the genre’s best aspects exceptionally well. One of these strengths is its ability to humanize individuals who have been deemed inhumane or unforgivable by society. The narrative’s close focus enables each actor in the talented cast to excel, with Rob Morgan and Tim Blake Nelson delivering standout performances in supporting roles. Michael B. Jordan’s nuanced portrayal also ranks among the greatest performances in this genre, earning him a place alongside acting legends like Jimmy Stewart and Paul Newman.

Thirst

Are you yearning for another dose of twisted, seductive, and audacious vampire films? Look no further than “Thirst,” a 2009 feature film from the brilliant mind of Park Chan-wook, known for movies like “Oldboy” and “The Handmaiden.” This dramatic tale revolves around the character of Sang-hyun (played by Song Kang-ho), a priest who, due to a medical mishap, transforms into a vampire. Now immortal and craving blood, he also finds himself unable to resist his feelings for the married Tae-ju (Kim Ok-vin).

In a surprising and unrelenting manner, this adaptation of Emile Zola’s 1867 novel “Thérèse Raquin” veers between intense sexual tension and startlingly brutal moments of violence. Remarkably, it features two actors whose performances can make even the most mundane activities captivating. Iconic South Korean actor Song Kang-ho once again solidifies his legendary status by delivering a riveting portrayal of Sang-hyun’s transformation from priest to obsessed member of the undead. Opposite him, Kim Ok-vin delivers one of 2009’s standout performances with her heart-wrenching interpretation as Tae-ju. She leaves no stone unturned in her on-screen work, thanks to her extraordinary commitment to this unconventional tale.

Park Chan-wook doesn’t hold back on his creative expression, even though he’s working within the vampire genre. His and Ok-vin’s dedication to providing viewers with captivating content they never thought possible makes “Thirst” a must-see for most—except those who are extremely averse to gore or disturbing images.

2025-06-01 17:32