KT joins me to dance with the devil this week, together we deep dive Ryan Coogler’s cinematic masterpiece Sinners. This isn't your average vampire musical; it challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, racism, and cultural appropriation. The core take away from this film is that the true horror is the treatment of the black characters and the systemic oppression inflicted on them. 

We also explore how the movie weaves together the complexities of Irish culture with themes of whitewashing and cultural vampirism, pushing boundaries in its depiction of power, heritage, and authenticity. We discuss how Sinners reflects the tension between reclaiming cultural roots and the exploitation of marginalized narratives for mainstream consumption. With both of us having irish roots like the vampire Remmick. 

KT and I both acknowledge as two white women there are limitations in our perspective. We approached the creation of this episode with much research and care. We are both committed to the dismantling of systemic racism through learning, reflection and action.  

Along with the film itself, references used in the creation of the episode are listed below.

Sinners (2025) | Rotten Tomatoes

‎Sinners (2025) directed by Ryan Coogler • Reviews, film + cast • Letterboxd

Sinners, Vampire Makeup FX, Behind the scenes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELNkVGS1PJE

Sinners, Spirits of the Deep South, Behind the Scenes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1x1YpJWIHM

Dancing with the Devil, Making of Sinners,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPYEqHYNiBA