Ryan Coogler’s much-anticipated film “Sinners” is already making waves in the film industry ahead of its official release this Friday. The excitement surrounding Coogler’s latest project can largely be attributed to a fascinating video shared by Kodak just days before the film hits theaters. This 10-minute video, which has accumulated approximately 1 million views across platforms like YouTube and TikTok, showcases Coogler’s unique ability to simplify complex filmmaking concepts. Topics such as aspect ratios, film formats, and sound design come alive, thanks in part to the interactive use of “Sinners” as a primary example.
In this informative video, Ryan Coogler transitions effortlessly into a professor-like figure, guiding viewers through an engaging discussion on various film formats. Behind him, visual aids such as film strips of diverse sizes and an intricately drawn whiteboard enhance the instructional experience. Starting with a brief overview of Super 8mm and Super 16mm film formats, Coogler clearly conveys his love for the art of filmmaking, which was deepened during his film school days. His nostalgia is palpable, particularly when he mentions his fondness for shooting with actual celluloid. In an era dominated by digital formats, he passionately reflects on how shooting on film fulfills a cherished artistic desire.
Coogler’s excitement is evident as he discusses “Sinners,” explaining that the film was shot using two distinct camera systems: Ultra Panavision 70 and IMAX. He details how Ultra Panavision 70, recognized as the widest format in cinematic history, alters the top and bottom of the screen, while IMAX, celebrated for its vertical height, crops the left and right sides. These choices highlight Coogler’s intent to maximize the visual storytelling aspect of the film.
“Sinners” draws heavily from Coogler’s upbringing in the Southern United States and personal family history, as it tells the story of two brothers opening a juke joint in their hometown in Mississippi. Michael B. Jordan, a long-time collaborator of Coogler, takes on the lead roles, portraying twin brothers named Smoke and Stack. Their journey is set against a paranormal backdrop that promises to weave suspense and intrigue into the narrative.
Despite “Sinners” not yet being released, it has already set new records in the film industry. Coogler points out in the Kodak video that this film marks the first occasion where a movie has been simultaneously shot in two different aspect ratios and then released in a combined format. Notably, cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw has made history as the first woman to shoot a theatrical feature film utilizing both 65mm and IMAX formats.
Audiences can anticipate enjoying “Sinners” in a variety of viewing formats. Select theaters will even feature showings where the aspect ratios shift throughout the film, adapting to the emotional intensity of specific scenes, marking yet another innovative element of Coogler’s filmmaking approach.
This project also represents a return to shooting on film for Coogler, who last utilized this medium in his breakthrough film, “Fruitvale Station,” in 2013. Coogler explains that his motivation to return to film goes beyond the technicalities of achieving a high resolution or shallow depth of field. Instead, he aims to provide the audience with a captivating theatrical experience reminiscent of those he cherished in his formative years. He notes, “My parents were working class in Oakland, and it was the most affordable way for us to go out and have a good time. I still believe in that.”
“Sinners” is set for nationwide release this Friday and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a company that, like CNN, falls under the umbrella of Warner Bros. Discovery. With its historical firsts and Coogler’s signature storytelling, it promises to be a captivating addition to the film landscape. As the excitement builds, fans and critics alike eagerly await what “Sinners” will bring to the cinema.