Michael B. Jordan shines in Sinners: the movie that breaks all nomination records at the Oscars

The film industry witnessed the emergence of an extraordinary phenomenon with the arrival of Sinners, the feature film directed by Ryan Coogler starring Michael B. Jordan in the lead role. This production has generated an unprecedented impact within the film community, establishing a new paradigm of success both at the box office and in academic recognition, with a plot that masterfully blends elements of supernatural horror, intense drama, and the cultural richness of American blues music.

When horror and blues converge in Mississippi

Sinners’ narrative transports viewers to Mississippi in the 1930s, a time filled with social and cultural complexity. Michael B. Jordan portrays twin brothers Smoke and Stack Moore, who return to their hometown after years of tumultuous life abroad. Their goal is to establish a blues club, seeking personal redemption and a fresh start. However, this return home is interrupted by the discovery of an evil force looming over the community, unleashing a chain of terrifying events and supernatural apparitions that test not only the brothers’ survival but also the racial and familial tensions characteristic of the era.

Coogler’s cinematic approach skillfully weaves classic horror elements with a profound exploration of cultural identity and artistic expression through blues, transforming what could have been a simple supernatural thriller into a multifaceted reflection on history, family, and resilience.

A historic milestone: 16 nominations that redefined Oscar history

Sinners made an unprecedented mark in the Academy Awards records by securing no less than 16 nominations at the 98th Oscars in 2026. This figure significantly surpasses previous records, leaving behind milestones set by major productions like Titanic and La La Land, which until now shared the distinction of the most nominations.

These nominations span prestigious categories recognizing both artistic and technical achievements:

• Main categories: Best Picture, Best Director (Ryan Coogler), and Best Actor (Michael B. Jordan)
• Cast performance: Nominations for Delroy Lindo and Wunmi Mosaku as supporting actors, along with a special recognition to Francine Maisler for casting
• Technical excellence: Cinematography (Autumn Durald Arkapaw), Editing (Michael P. Shawver), Original Screenplay (Ryan Coogler), Costume Design (Ruth E. Carter), Makeup and Hair, Score (Ludwig Göransson), and Original Song
• Production and effects: Nominations in Production Design, Sound Editing, and Visual Effects

This widespread recognition not only highlights the undeniable technical quality of the production but also underscores the cultural impact Sinners has generated within the industry and among global audiences.

Where to watch Sinners: available on multiple platforms

For viewers interested in experiencing Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler’s work, the film is widely distributed across the digital ecosystem:

Premium streaming and video on demand:

• Prime Video offers access via purchase or rental without requiring an additional subscription
• HBO Max added Sinners to its catalog in July 2025, also providing accessible versions with interpretation in Black American Sign Language (BASL)
• Apple TV+ and Fandango At Home complete the digital options for purchase and rental

Theatrical experience: Some theater chains have scheduled special screenings and re-releases of Sinners due to its sustained box office performance and ongoing relevance during awards season, providing audiences the opportunity to appreciate the cinematography and sound design in optimal format.

The availability across these multiple platforms emphasizes the industry’s recognition of this work as both an artistic and commercial milestone in recent film history.