Critics at Large | The New Yorker Episode: How “Sinners” Revives the Vampire
Release Date: May 1, 2025

Introduction to the Episode and Topic

In this episode of Critics at Large, hosted by The New Yorker’s staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Frye, and Alexandra Schwartz, the trio delves into Ryan Coogler’s latest film, “Sinners.” The discussion centers around how the film reinvigorates the vampire genre, blending it seamlessly with historical realism, music, and action to address contemporary cultural issues.

Overview of "Sinners" Plot and Setting

“Sinners” transports viewers to 1932 Mississippi, a period marked by deep-seated racism and segregation. The narrative follows two twin brothers, both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan, who return to their hometown after serving in World War I. With significant financial resources, they aim to open a juke joint in an old slaughterhouse, symbolizing both cultural revival and the challenges of reintegration into a society fraught with racial tensions.

Alex Schwartz introduces the film:

“Sinners is an original piece of work which is increasingly rare in our time. And so it's kind of a big deal that it's doing so well.” [03:22]

Genre Blending and Film Style

“Sinners” is lauded for its audacious genre fusion, combining elements of a period piece, historical realism, music, and high-octane action. The film is not a traditional musical, yet music plays a pivotal role, enriching the narrative and cultural backdrop.

Vinson Cunningham remarks on the film’s ambition:

“It's corny and it's great. And it's like, okay, you know what? Yeah.” [13:00]

Hosts' Opinions and Reactions

The hosts express their initial skepticism toward the film's unconventional blending of genres but ultimately commend its entertainment value and depth.

Naomi Frye shares her unexpected appreciation:

“I really liked it. My haters streak is, you know, is coming to a screeching halt for the second time.” [09:36]

Alex Schwartz echoes this sentiment, highlighting the film’s boldness and innovative approach:

“He's putting it all out there with everything that you both were just describing.” [11:19]

Vampire Symbolism and Cultural Reflections

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the vampire as a cultural metaphor. The hosts explore how "Sinners" utilizes vampires to mirror societal fears and tensions around race, immigration, and cultural appropriation.

Alex Schwartz delves deeper:

“The vampire, I would say, has... such a big cultural presence and we really use vampires often as a kind of lens into cultural concerns of the moment.” [04:01]

Historical Context and Evolution of Vampire Tropes

The episode traces the evolution of vampire lore, from early tales like John Polidori’s "The Vampyre" (1819) to modern reinterpretations such as Twilight and True Blood. The hosts discuss how these portrayals reflect the prevailing societal anxieties of their respective eras.

Nomi Frye provides historical insights:

“Polidori makes the maiden and the sexual innuendo a thing.” [24:36]

Ryan Coogler's Approach to Vampires in "Sinners"

Ryan Coogler’s reinvention of the vampire trope is a focal point. Unlike traditional portrayals where vampires serve as external threats to societal purity, "Sinners" presents them as complex figures entwined with the historical and cultural fabric of 1932 Mississippi.

Vinson Cunningham analyzes Coogler’s intent:

“The vampire comes into that. And I think part of the reason... to flip this term sinners on its head.” [37:14]

Alex Schwartz adds:

“It's pointing the way in one direction is the vampire is once again doing a big ambitious thing.” [42:56]

Themes of Survival and Historical Revisionism

“Sinners” uses vampirism as a metaphor for colonial resistance and cultural survival. The vampires’ integration into the juke joint setting symbolizes attempts to preserve African American cultural identity amidst oppressive societal structures.

Vincent Cunningham connects to Coogler's broader filmography:

“Like Black Panther... the vampires are anti-heroic, double-sided.” [16:45]

The Ambiguity and Depth of Vampires in "Sinners"

The hosts discuss the ambiguous nature of vampires in the film, viewing them as both protectors and predators. This duality reflects the complexities of racial dynamics and the struggle for cultural autonomy.

Alex Schwartz contemplates the existential aspect:

“Vampires live forever... it also means that you actually can't live any particular life.” [34:01]

Nomi Frye summarizes the overarching theme:

“How do we live in time... vampires promises this thing that humans have wanted forever, eternal life.” [45:32]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on “Sinners” as a significant contribution to both the vampire genre and cultural discourse. By intertwining historical context with supernatural elements, Ryan Coogler offers a fresh perspective that challenges and enriches traditional narratives around race, culture, and identity.

Alex Schwartz wraps up:

“How we live in time... vampires help us ask this by being your supernatural selves.” [46:19]

Notable Quotes:

• Alex Schwartz [04:01]:
  “The vampire has such a big cultural presence and we really use vampires often as a kind of lens into cultural concerns of the moment.”

• Naomi Frye [09:36]:
  “I really liked it. My haters streak is, you know, is coming to a screeching halt for the second time.”

• Vinson Cunningham [13:00]:
  “It's corny and it's great. And it's like, okay, you know what? Yeah.”

• Alex Schwartz [42:56]:
  “It's pointing the way in one direction is the vampire is once again doing a big ambitious thing.”

Final Thoughts:

“Sinners” emerges as a bold and thought-provoking film that redefines the vampire archetype, positioning it within a historical and cultural framework that resonates with contemporary societal issues. Through vigorous analysis and engaging conversation, Critics at Large offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of how Ryan Coogler leverages traditional myths to comment on modern-day challenges.