The latest entry in Ryan Coogler’s filmography, “Sinners”, has finally arrived, and lives up audience’s expectations. . The film manages to work both as solid entertainment and successfully combine music and horror to tell a story.

Set in the early 1930’s, the film follows identical twins Smoke and Stack ( Michael B. Jordan) as they return home after leading a successful life as gangsters. The twins  soon discover that they are not alone, as their town is haunted by vampires.

The movie provides audiences with a new take on the horror genre. The vampires in the movie are different from traditional depictions, biting people with the intention to save them from the burdens of the world rather than harm them.They aim to create a community where everyone can live peacefully together, which presents a challenge for the humans as they want to leave their problems behind but know that the vampires’ offer is not what it seems.

The film also differs from a traditional horror movie by allowing the audience  to get to know the characters. Spending over an hour establishing the main cast allows people to connect with them, and results in the film’s emotional scenes being much more effective when the vampires start to hunt the characters.

The performances of the cast enhance an already strong story. Michael B. Jordan’s performance as the both of the twins is easily one of the best of his career. Despite the characters being identical and sharing most of their scenes together, he gives both characters their own personalities. Miles Canton’s performance as Sammie is also a highlight, playing an aspiring musician who can conjure spirits with his music.

Perhaps the most impressive feat of the movie is the composer’s  ability to use music to help tell the movie’s story. There are many musical numbers in the film, but they never feel out of place. Whether the music is displaying Sammie’s gift or adding to the vampire’s ominous presence, each song serves a purpose and strengthens an already incredible movie.

One musical number in particular must be seen to fully be appreciated. Sammie evokes the spirits of his ancestors while playing music, which results in the musicians from different generations arriving and performing alongside him. The sequence is also done in one long take, slowly taking the audience through the restaurant and giving each performer time to showcase their talent.

“Sinners” took a risk merging horror and music, but executed it perfectly. The film is a much needed breath of fresh air in an age of sequels and remakes, and another addition to an already strong decade for horror movies. Only time will tell if it will get the recognition it deserves when awards season rolls around.