‘S–t Man, It Broke Us Up.’ Michael B. Jordan Shares The Chadwick Boseman Challenge Ryan Coogler Gave Him On The Set Of Sinners That ‘Really Resonated’

Michael B. Jordan has been working closely with director Ryan Coogler for more than ten years, but their upcoming 2025 film release, titled “Sinners,” might be their most deeply personal project to date. This horror movie combines elements of Southern gothic, crime drama, and vampire tales, and it’s been a commercial success, further cementing the pair’s nearly unblemished streak from “Fruitvale Station” to “Black Panther.” Jordan recently opened up about the late Chadwick Boseman and recounted a challenge that Ryan presented him on the set of “Sinners” which he hasn’t forgotten.

During an interview with Deadline, Jordan revealed the profound impact of Chadwick Boseman’s passing on him. He disclosed an instance when Ryan Coogler unexpectedly posed a challenging question during filming, which prompted him to contemplate the loss of the previous Black Panther actor.

Chadwick Boseman holds great significance for us, and when Ryan posed the question, “What do you think Chadwick would be doing now?”, it struck a deep chord in me. It was a poignant moment that left both of us emotional. But he didn’t need to say anything more after that. That was one of those buttons he could easily push. I felt his presence during this time.

As per the statements made by the actor from “Creed”, he initially felt no need for additional clarification, but the director’s remarks shifted his entire viewpoint. Later, Jordan opened up about a deeper, heartfelt bond, this time with his family.

During this time, my grandmother was by my side, which is amazing. As we went through the process, it brought back memories of my childhood, specifically visits to my grandmother’s house, where we used to look at old photo albums with my mom. These photos showed my grandparents, great-grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles from the 30s, 20s, and 40s. It struck me then that I had only ever known them in my life as older individuals, like grandparents, great aunts, great uncles, and so on.

The truth struck the former star of “The Wire” deeply. The worn-out black-and-white pictures were not mere reminiscences, but portals revealing authentic lives brimming with aspirations, affection, struggle, and anguish. He went on to say:

Reflecting upon these images, it struck me that those people were around the same age as I am now. They were striving to build businesses, dancing, enjoying themselves, laughing, partying – just trying to get by. Looking at their struggles, I can’t help but think, “Wow, this movie is for them.” As I delve deeper into their stories, I feel like I’m stepping into their lives and experiencing what they went through. It’s crucial for me to capture that essence authentically in the film.

Jordan’s portrayal in the film “Sinners” transcends just physical and emotional acting; it carries an ancestral weight. It’s evident that Boseman’s influence played a significant role in fueling his on-screen intensity, much like how he carried a heavy emotional burden while playing Killmonger in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies.

In the latest vampire film, Jordan once more tested his limits by portraying twin characters, each displaying distinct methods for handling trauma, body language, and speech patterns. Masterfully playing Smoke and Stack was an impressive technical feat. However, it was the emotional depth—embodying Boseman’s essence and honoring his family’s legacy—that truly set his performance apart. And that emotional resonance alone makes the movie ticket worth every penny.

Right now, you can catch the movie “Sinners” at your local cinemas. For showtimes, please check your listings. Additionally, you might want to rewatch the captivating duo of Jordan and Boseman on screen (under Coogler’s direction) in “Black Panther“, which is now available for streaming with a Disney+ subscription.

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2025-04-22 17:38

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