In a groundbreaking cinematic journey, cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw recounts her experience working on Ryan Coogler's latest masterpiece, "Sinners." Set in the 1930s Mississippi, this film weaves a tale of culture, history, and music against a backdrop of supernatural intrigue. The story follows twins Smoke and Stack as they return to their roots and open a juke joint, only to encounter an eerie spirit drawn by the soulful voice of their cousin Sammie. With meticulous planning and innovative techniques, including the use of 70mm Imax film, Arkapaw and Coogler crafted visually stunning scenes that blend reality with surrealism, particularly in a pivotal musical montage.
The Making of a Cinematic Marvel
In the heart of winter 2024, cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw received an unexpected email from director Ryan Coogler. It contained the script for "Sinners," a deeply personal project for Coogler. As Arkapaw delved into the script one evening, she was captivated by its intricate layers and cultural significance. The story unfolds in the rural South during the early 20th century, where Michael B. Jordan plays dual roles as Smoke and Stack, two brothers who reignite their community's spirit through music. Their cousin Sammie, played by Miles Caton, becomes the catalyst for a mysterious supernatural event when his haunting melodies attract an ominous presence lurking within the town.
Arkapaw joined the project, embarking on a collaborative journey to define its visual language. Initially considering 16mm film, the team transitioned to experimenting with larger formats after discussions about landscape photography reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino's "The Hateful Eight." Testing various formats in the desert near Lancaster solidified their decision to use 70mm Imax film. This choice enabled them to create immersive sequences, such as the surreal montage featuring tribal dancers, electric guitarists, and hip-hop deejays. Production designer Hannah Beachler played a crucial role by constructing authentic sets that enhanced performances and atmosphere.
Lighting primarily came from above, allowing for fluid camera movement within the expansive format. Lanterns strung throughout the juke joint added authenticity and moodiness to the setting. Capturing Jordan's dual performances required innovative techniques like split-screen and minimal face replacement technology, ensuring the narrative remained grounded in reality. Despite technical challenges, Arkapaw embraced the demands of shooting on 70mm, finding inspiration in fellow cinematographer Hoyte Van Hoytema's advice to treat the medium boldly.
From a journalist's perspective, "Sinners" exemplifies how visionary storytelling can transcend traditional boundaries. By merging historical context with cutting-edge filmmaking, Coogler and Arkapaw have created a work that not only entertains but also provokes thought about ancestry, resilience, and cultural heritage. Their dedication to authenticity and innovation serves as a powerful reminder of cinema's potential to illuminate universal truths through artistry.