Ryan Coogler, the acclaimed Oakland-born director, has made headlines once again as his latest film, “Sinners,” has garnered a historic 16 nominations for the upcoming 2026 Academy Awards. This achievement makes “Sinners” the most-nominated film in Oscar history, a remarkable feat for a horror drama set in 1932 Mississippi. Among the accolades is a nomination for Best Director for Coogler, marking a significant moment as he becomes the first Black filmmaker from Oakland to achieve recognition in this prestigious category.
“Sinners” has made a considerable impact not only in acting and directing but also across various filmmaking disciplines, including cinematography, editing, costume design, sound, original screenplay, and Best Picture. Prior to the Oscars, the film also found success at the Golden Globes, receiving awards for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement, as well as Best Original Score, although some critics feel it still has room for improvement in recognition.
Ryan Coogler’s impactful career began in 2013 with “Fruitvale Station,” which brought the story of Oscar Grant III to the forefront, resonating strongly within the Oakland community. He then went on to direct major studio films, including “Creed” and the groundbreaking “Black Panther.” “Black Panther” alone racked up seven Oscar nominations and won three, while Coogler’s involvement in “Judas and the Black Messiah,” which received five nominations and won two, further solidifies his place in cinema history. His works are celebrated for their balance of commercial appeal and narratives grounded in real-life experiences.
Born in Oakland and raised in Richmond, Coogler’s academic journey took him through St. Mary’s College High School in Berkeley, California State University, Sacramento, and eventually the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, where he earned his Master of Fine Arts (MFA). Influenced by a creative writing class during his college years, Coogler honed his talent for crafting emotionally resonant stories, setting the stage for his directorial future.
Supporting Coogler throughout his journey has been his wife and producing partner, Zinzi Coogler, whom he met during their time as college athletes. Zinzi has played an integral role in Coogler’s career, assisting in early access to professional writing resources and co-founding Proximity Media with Sev Ohanian in 2021, focusing on meaningful storytelling.
With “Sinners,” Coogler delves into a new genre, merging historical drama with horror. The film follows Sammie, a young blues musician facing family conflicts and supernatural challenges during the Jim Crow era in Mississippi. It explores themes of music, faith, race, and survival, drawing on Coogler’s family history, particularly the migration of relatives from Mississippi to California after World War II. The influence of blues music, inherited from family members, also forms a critical emotional underpinning of the film.
Notable contributions to the film include an original song by Oakland artist Raphael Saadiq, which has earned an Oscar nomination. Additionally, actor Delroy Lindo, a long-time Oakland resident, is also recognized with his first Academy Award nomination for his performance in “Sinners.”
As Coogler ascends to one of the most influential filmmakers of his time, his journey serves as a testament to the power of storytelling rooted in community. From local theaters to the global stage of awards ceremonies, his work continues to resonate, inspiring a new generation of artists and filmmakers.