Critics and preview audiences are raving about Ryan Coogler’s new supernatural thriller “Sinners,” suggesting it has all the elements needed for a springtime box office success. The vampire-themed film stars Michael B. Jordan in dual roles as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, who encounter a malevolent force upon returning to their hometown.

The period piece, set in the Jim Crow South during the 1930s, also features performances from Hailee Steinfeld, newcomer Miles Caton, and Jack O’Connell. Following early screenings and the New York premiere, viewers are enthusiastically describing the film from the “Black Panther” director as intelligent, sensual, and eerie.

On social media platform X, Slashfilm writer BJ Colangelo declared, “Ryan Coogler has solidified his place as one of the greats (more than he already has) with #Sinners. As good as you think it’s going to be, it’s better. Scary, SEXY, and social commentary with a hell of a bite.”

Indiewire contributor Jim Hemphill expressed excitement about the film’s 70mm screening at Los Angeles’ Vista Theater, commenting, “This is incredibly exciting news. #SinnersMovie is a bold blast, easily one of my favorite studio releases of the last 10 years. Can’t wait to see it in 70mm at my favorite first run theater!”

TikTok personality Alex Coleman offered a succinct but enthusiastic assessment: “Sinners is a fucking banger. Coogler you genius.”

Film critic Peter Gray noted the film’s genre elements and performances: “#Sinners is exactly the vampire joint you’d expect Ryan Coogler to make. The way he interweaves music to make it its own character is masterful. Michael B. Jordan is superb, Jack O’Connell enjoyably unsettling, Hailee [Steinfeld] a minx in the best way. Gory, horny, relevant.”

Nick L’Barrow of NickFlicksFix praised the film’s aesthetics and score: “I LOVED #SINNERS! It’s a tense, sensual, transcendent film that is Coogler’s most beautiful looking film to date. The score is not only fantastic, but such an integral part of a narrative about the cultural and magical impact of music. Michael B. Jordan kills in the dual role.”

Critic Aaron Neuwirth recommended the theatrical experience: “I had a blast with @SinnersMovie. Far wilder than some may expect. Ryan Coogler brings so much style to this very cool blend of a specific period, genres, and Black culture. Best vampire film I’ve seen in years. See it in 70mm IMAX if you can!”

“Sinners” debuts in theaters on April 18.