Democracy Now! Audio cover image

Democracy Now! Audio

Democracy Now! 2025-04-25 Friday

Apr 25, 2025
Ryan Coogler, the acclaimed director behind hits like Black Panther, teams up with Justin Pearson, Tennessee State Representative and environmental advocate. They dive into Coogler's new horror film, 'Sinners', set against Jim Crow Mississippi, merging personal and societal battles. The duo also tackles pressing topics like environmental injustice in Memphis, calling for accountability in corporate practices, and highlighting the devastating impact of pollution on communities of color. Their discussion interlaces art, heritage, and activism, emphasizing resilience amidst adversity.
59:00

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ryan Coogler's film 'Sinners' intertwines horror with cultural exploration, addressing themes of racial legacies and identity through a personal narrative.
  • In Memphis, community activists confront environmental injustice caused by corporate negligence, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and health equity.

Deep dives

Ryan Coogler's Exploration of Identity in 'Sinners'

Ryan Coogler's film 'Sinners' serves as both a horror narrative and a personal exploration of his familial lineage, particularly focusing on a century-old connection to Mississippi. The film follows identical twin brothers, Smoke and Stack, who return to their hometown to confront supernatural forces amid the Jim Crow era. Coogler draws inspiration from his own family history and their relationships with Delta blues music, creating a blend of horror and cultural commentary. His research into the Delta blues reveals the profound impact of this art form, highlighting how it emerged from a community facing systemic oppression and has contributed significantly to global culture.

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