Last night I went with my son to see the much lauded film, 'Sinners'. We came out absolutely amazed and enthused, for such a beautifully made supernatural horror film with a difference - and that difference was the music.
It gave us a totally immersive experience, so much so that if you asked me which songs were sung on particular scenes, I wouldn't be able to tell you. (I just may have to go back to the cinema to see it again!) All of this after a report saying that Coogler had broken the studio system because of his contract with them.
LINK IN THE COMMENTS
Anyway, Jack O'Connell gave the creepiest musical performances of the night (Pick Poor Robin Clean) as well as utilising his skills in traditional Irish Dancing. This and the Juke Joint ensemble performances gave the film a lot of high-octane energy - alongside the singing vampires outside - and my son and I came out totally wowed by the performances, so much so that it has renewed my love of the Blues. I just don't know where to start assembling my new playlist/cd collection acquisitions.
Of course, this was aided by a cameo role by Buddy Guy, just when you thought the film was over. Music was such an integral part of the storytelling, with the different styles on show, so much so that the British film critic, Mark Kermode, made the case for Coogler/Goransson letting the music tell us part of the story, not restricting it to the action and the dialogue. There may have been a hint at cultural appropriation or cultural assimilation, particularly with the mashup/surreal mix of the vampire rendition of 'Rocky Road to Dublin'? (I hope I've remembered that correctly).
We came out feeling one of those cinematic highs and gobsmacked at just what filmmakers can do, when they have honed their craft. If this is what the so-called breaking of the studio system means, then bring it on!
Have you seen 'Sinners'? What did you make of the film? The music? Has Coogler broken the studio system with his deal with Warner Bros? Any Buddy Guy fans out there?
https://youtu.be/G6cQdZci-4E