Sinners (2025) redefined the Southern Gothic genre by using supernatural horror to explore Black resilience and the “vampiric” nature of white supremacy. A historic awards juggernaut, the film earned 16 Academy Award nominations and grossed nearly $300 million domestically, proving that high-concept, culturally intentional horror can dominate the global box office.

The production’s success was anchored by the creative leadership of Sev Ohanian and Zinzi Coogler, who negotiated a landmark deal for creator rights while prioritizing a massive, theatrical-first experience. This vision was realized through the lens of Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. Her mastery of IMAX and 65mm formats gave the film a visceral, “dream-like” quality that grounded its supernatural elements in historical reality.