Why SINNERS Is the Most Important Film of the Decade

Author: Ourselves
Published: Thu 22 May 2025
Episode Link: https://ourselves.podbean.com/e/why-sinners-is-the-most-important-film-of-the-decade/

In this solo episode, I dive into why Sinners might be the most significant cinematic release of the decade. This isn’t just another box office success, it’s a cultural shift. Ryan Coogler’s groundbreaking deal with Warner Brothers grants him ownership rights after 25 years, setting a new precedent for filmmakers to retain equity in their work. We talk about the power of ownership, the long-term value of creative control, and how final cut privileges are changing the dynamics between studios and directors.

I also explore the technical and cultural innovations that make Sinners so impactful, from Autumn Dural Arkapaw becoming the first woman to shoot a theatrical film on IMAX 65mm, to Michael B. Jordan’s jaw-dropping dual role brought to life through advanced motion control techniques. The film’s success is undeniable: nearly $300 million at the box office, a sold-out IMAX re-release, and a growing demand for original, bold storytelling that doesn’t rely on franchise formulas.

This is a call to action for indie filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives who want to reclaim power in the filmmaking process. If you care about the future of cinema, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction: The Impact of 'Sinners'

00:07 Ryan Coogler's Warner Brothers Deal

00:34 The Importance of Film Ownership

00:42 Long-Term Benefits of Ownership

01:12 Empowering Filmmakers

01:45 Deep Dive: Ownership in Filmmaking

04:31 Final Cut Privileges in Filmmaking

05:10 Creative Control in the Studio System

06:01 Challenges of Creative Autonomy

07:02 New Precedents in Filmmaking

07:19 Historic Milestones for Women in Cinematography

08:58 The Power of Collaboration

09:52 Ryan Coogler and Autumn Durrell's Synergy

11:28 Continued Collaborations: Michael B. Jordan

11:51 Modern Day Scorsese and De Niro

13:30 Technical Innovations in 'Sinners'

13:44 The Hype Around IMAX and 70mm Film

15:21 Christopher Nolan's Influence

16:38 Michael B. Jordan's Dual Role

17:19 Motion Control Techniques

20:49 Box Office Success of 'Sinners'

21:39 Re-release in IMAX

22:26 Shoutouts and Acknowledgements

23:31 The Future of Indie Cinema

24:17 Conclusion and Call to Action