Connection to a Multi-Racial Character

Hailee Steinfeld, renowned for her acting skills and Oscar nomination, recently shared her deep personal connection to her character in the upcoming film Sinners. The movie, directed by Ryan Coogler, is set to premiere in theaters on April 18 and features Steinfeld in the role of Mary, a multi-racial vampire in a horror narrative set in the 1930s southern United States.

Personal Reflections on Identity

In an interview with People, Steinfeld revealed how her heritage influenced her portrayal of Mary. Her mixed-race background, being part-Black and part-Filipino, allowed her to resonate deeply with the complexities of the character. “It had such an impact on me personally,” she stated, emphasizing her hope that the film would evoke similar reflections in its audience.

Steinfeld expressed gratitude for the personal insights the narrative provided, particularly in relation to her family history. “I have questions that this movie raised for me,” she noted, mentioning her late grandfather and the significance of exploring their legacy through her work.

Plot Overview and Themes

Sinners features a storyline centered on twin brothers, Smoke and Stack, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan. The brothers return home after serving in World War I to establish a blues club in Mississippi, only to confront a lurking supernatural malevolence. Jordan’s character arc intertwines with themes of heritage and the haunting presence of the past.

A Personal Journey for Ryan Coogler

Ryan Coogler has conveyed that the film stems from his own personal experiences, shaped by the loss of his Uncle James, who was a significant influence in his life. Elaborating on this connection, Coogler described how listening to blues music, a passion of his uncle, became a way for him to remember and connect with his late relative. “I would find myself listening to those blues records when I wanted to think about him,” he remarked, capturing the essence of nostalgia and remembrance that infuses the film’s narrative.