Ryan Coogler’s supernatural horror-musical Sinners has become a massive success in Nigerian cinemas, grossing N567.4 million after just four weeks on screens. Premiering on April 18, the film has topped the Nigerian box office for four consecutive weekends, with data from the Nigerian Box Office indicating its dominant performance through May 11. The film’s success highlights the growing enthusiasm for high-quality international blockbusters among Nigerian audiences.
Since its release, Sinners has garnered widespread attention across Nigerian cinemas, outpacing other films, including Thunderbolts, a Marvel Studios title that made N142 million in its first two weeks. The success of Sinners further cements the increasing appeal of global films in the Nigerian market, especially those that mix innovative genres with high production values. In fact, the film’s impressive box office revenue surpasses expectations for horror films in the region.
Directed by Ryan Coogler, best known for his work on Black Panther and Creed, Sinners represents a bold shift in his filmmaking style. The movie combines supernatural horror with a compelling musical score, set against the backdrop of the racially charged Mississippi Delta during the Great Depression. Coogler’s choice to explore this period in American history, alongside genre-blending storytelling, has struck a chord with Nigerian moviegoers. The film’s haunting musical score, composed by Ludwig Göransson, adds a layer of emotional depth, complementing the film’s intense plot.
With a reported budget of $100 million, Sinners is one of the most ambitious films of the year. The plot revolves around twin brothers Elijah “Smoke” and Elias “Stack” Moore, World War I veterans returning to their hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi. Their dream of establishing a safe space for the Black community through a juke joint is soon jeopardized by both human and supernatural forces. Michael B. Jordan plays the dual lead roles of Elijah and Elias, while the supporting cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Delroy Lindo, Wunmi Mosaku, and Miles Caton. This strong ensemble cast and the intriguing narrative are a large part of why the film has resonated so strongly with Nigerian audiences.
Sinners is also enjoying major success outside Nigeria, particularly in the United States and Canada. The film has surpassed $216 million in North America, becoming the highest-grossing original film since Pixar’s Coco in 2017. Its genre-blending approach and social commentary have earned praise from critics. The film’s domestic gross of $23 million in its fourth weekend exceeded the opening of Smile 2, a recent horror release. Despite facing tough competition from blockbuster franchises, Sinners has shown remarkable staying power at the global box office.
The ongoing success of Sinners in Nigerian cinemas mirrors the growing strength of the local movie industry. Nigerian box office revenue reached N3.48 billion in Q1 2025, driven by a blend of local films and major international releases. The film’s ability to perform well in Nigerian markets, despite its historical setting and American themes, underscores the increasing appetite for diverse and innovative genres. While the Nigerian film industry remains vibrant, international films—especially those with global appeal—are gaining a stronger foothold.
Sinners represents more than just a commercial hit in Nigeria. It is a cultural moment that bridges historical themes with global genre cinema. The film’s focus on the American South during the Great Depression and its blend of horror and musical elements make it an unconventional success story in the Nigerian context. Its performance in Nigerian cinemas signals that audiences are eager to embrace films that expand genre boundaries while offering thought-provoking narratives.
In many ways, the film’s success could pave the way for more genre-defying films to find a place in African markets, where global films have become increasingly popular. As the Nigerian film industry continues to thrive, international productions like Sinners may lead the charge in attracting diverse audiences across the continent.
The success of Sinners in Nigerian cinemas is a clear indicator of changing movie tastes in Africa. As global box office numbers continue to climb for this ambitious project, its impact will likely be felt for some time. In Nigeria, where genres and storytelling conventions are constantly evolving, the film’s triumph not only reinforces the market’s potential but also sets the stage for further international crossover success. For now, Sinners remains a defining moment in both global cinema and Nigerian movie culture.
