Despite collecting ₹500 crores in just its opening weekend, the Hollywood film ‘Sinners’ is at the center of an unusual controversy. With a massive budget of ₹700 crores and an A-list team led by director Ryan Coogler, expectations were sky-high. Yet, rather than being celebrated, the movie’s success is being met with hesitation — and some believe racism may be playing a part.
The film’s weekend numbers are spectacular by any industry standard. In India alone, only a few Bollywood blockbusters have come close to such an opening. Globally, the buzz around ‘Sinners’ was strong even before release, thanks to its gripping trailer, intense narrative, and stellar performances.
However, despite this roaring start, major studio heads and trade experts are questioning the film’s “true potential” and whether it will be profitable in the long run — a reaction that’s raising eyebrows.
Many critics and fans are now pointing fingers at racial bias. They argue that if a white director had delivered similar results with such a budget, the industry would have been quick to label it a historic blockbuster. But with Coogler, a Black filmmaker known for hits like Black Panther, there seems to be a lack of enthusiasm and recognition.
Some even question the recently proposed long-term studio deal for Ryan Coogler. Despite his consistent track record and the promising debut of ‘Sinners’, discussions around his future collaborations are being approached with doubt — something rarely seen with other top-tier directors in Hollywood.
This isn’t the first time racial disparity has been accused in Hollywood. From awards shows to studio investments, the industry has long been under scrutiny for sidelining Black creators and undervaluing their work.
As ‘Sinners’ continues to perform globally, it remains to be seen whether the narrative around the film will shift to acknowledge its success — or whether underlying biases will continue to cloud its achievements.
