Ryan Coogler has issued an emotional letter following the box office and critical success of his latest film, Sinners, saying he was eternally grateful to those who are supporting the film.
What did Ryan Coogler say about Sinners’ box office results?
In a letter released by the director on the movie’s social media account, he celebrated the film winning the box office weekend and bringing in $63 million globally. In the letter, he said that he wants to thank “each and every” person who went to the theater, made friends afterward, and continue to talk about the movie.
“I want thank each and every one of you who bought a ticket to see Sinners,” wrote Coogler. “Who decided to drive to see the film in different formats. Who bought popcorn and a drink, booked a sitter and carpooled, and stood in the lobby afterwards and talked and made a friend. Who changed their work schedules. Who saw the film in groups. I want to thank you all who watched more than once, who recommended the film to others, both in person and on social media or on your text message chains.”
Coogler went on to talk about the “gift” he had of getting to make the film, which he says is “inspired by my family and my ancestry.” He said that, despite the closeness of the film to him, he always had his minds on the audience, and “felt a deep responsibility” to make the movie enjoyable for audiences.
“I believe in cinema. I believe in the theatrical experience,” Coogler’s letter reads. “I believe it is a necessary pillar of society. It’s why me and so many of my colleagues have dedicated our lives to the craft. We don’t get to do what we do if you don’t show up. The global theatrical audience has allowed me to dream, find a career, and build a more sustainable life for me and my family. And the only way that I know how to thank you for that, is by continuing to mine my personal human experience and my relationships for more stories to bring to you in cinematic language. To see your response to the film has re-invigorated me and many others who believe in this art form.”
Released earlier this month, Sinners has so far been a massive hit for Coogler. The movie has received critical acclaim, scoring 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, and is also the first horror movie to receive an ‘A’ grade on CinemaScore.
You can check out Coogler’s letter in full below:
