Is Michael B. Jordan's Sinners (2025) based on a true story? Details explored

Sinners is a forthcoming horror film from Ryan Coogler, known for directing Black Panther, Creed, and Fruitvale Station. The film stars his frequent collaborator, Michael B. Jordan, in the lead role. The actor will be seen playing dual roles in this film.

Because of its genre and promos, Sinners has reportedly generated some hype among viewers. The film is produced by Coogler, Sev Ohanian, and Zinzi Coogler, and it is slated to be released on April 18, 2025, by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Here's the official synopsis of the film:

Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.

Is Sinners based on a real event?

A still from Sinners | Image via Warner Bros. Pictures YouTube

It is not based on a true story, although the events in the film take place during the 1930s when Jim Crow laws had been incorporated in the southern part of the United States. During that time, people were segregated by the government based on their race.

The makers have combined this political event into the film's background and infused it with elements of horror.

What is the plot of Sinners?

Sinners takes place in the 1930s and revolves around twin brothers (Elijah and Elias) who have to come back to their hometown. There, the two are confronted by an evil force they must overcome. It will be the fifth collaboration between Coogler and Michael B. Jordan after Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther, Creed II, and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

The film has Jordan playing the dual roles of Elias and Elijah. He was earlier seen portraying Adonis Creed in Creed III. It turned out to be a critical and commercial success. Besides him, the film also has Hailee Steinfeld playing Mary, Jack O'Connell as Remmick, and Wunmi Mosaku portraying Annie.

Other cast members of the film, as per IMDb include:

Jayme Lawson as Pearl
Omar Benson Miller as Cornbread
Delroy Lindo as Slim
Li Jun Li as Grace
Miles Caton as Sammy
Lola Kirke
Yao
Peter Dreimanis
Christian Robinson
Jermaine Mctizic

Some reports have suggested that Sinners might be a vampire film. It is new territory for both Jordan and Coogler, who have not tackled this genre before.

It was supposed to drop earlier in March, but the release date was pushed back due to several delays in the post-production work. The film's shooting started in April 2024 and wrapped in mid-July the same year. It was primarily shot in New Orleans and Louisiana.

Talking about their collaborative journey Coogler spoke to Variety in 2023. He said he decided to work with Jordan right after their meeting.

He said:

“I was just hoping we’d get along a little bit. And I’m fresh out of school, you know, so like, I worked with professional actors but none were really established.”