Empire Magazine has officially named Ryan Coogler’s Sinners as its Film of the Year, marking the genre-blending drama as one of the most critically acclaimed movies of 2025.
The recognition places Sinners at the top of Empire’s annual list celebrating the year’s best films. Directed by RyanCoogler and starring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role, the movie has received widespread praise for its bold storytelling, striking performances, and cultural relevance.
Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan
Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners blends historical drama, supernatural horror, and music-driven storytelling. The film follows twin brothers who return to their hometown to open a juke joint, only for events to spiral after a supernatural presence disrupts the night. Critics have noted that the film uses horror elements to examine themes of race, identity, exploitation, and resilience.
Empire Magazine’s decision reflects a growing critical consensus around Sinners. Since its release, the film has featured prominently on year end best of lists and has generated strong awards-season buzz, particularly for Coogler’s direction and Jordan’s performance.
In its coverage, Empire praised the film for pushing genre cinema beyond conventional boundaries, blending spectacle with meaningful social commentary. The publication also highlighted the film’s cinematography, production design, and music, which play a central role in shaping its emotional and thematic impact.
The Film of the Year honour further positions Sinners as a major contender in the ongoing awards conversation and underscores Ryan Coogler’s reputation as one of contemporary cinema’s most influential filmmakers.
The Golden Globe Awards are often a thrilling forerunner to the Oscars, particularly in the music categories, where a single song can capture the heart of a film and resonate globally. For the 2026 Golden Globes, the Best Original Song – Motion Picture category consist of a formidable lineup, with “I Lied To You” from Ryan Coogler’s ambitious supernatural drama ‘SINNERS’ positioned as a powerful contender.
“I Lied To You” stands out for its deep roots and raw emotional power. Performed within ‘SINNERS’ by the compelling Miles Caton, the song is far more than a simple soundtrack inclusion; it’s the very soul of the film. Set in the 1932 Mississippi Delta, ‘SINNERS’ talks about the origins of the blues, and Caton’s character, Sammie Moore, an aspiring musician, channels the era’s struggles and aspirations into every note.
The track’s brilliance is owed to the collaboration between two musical giants: Grammy-winning R&B legend Raphael Saadiq and Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson. Their combined talents have forged a blues track that feels both historically authentic and universally resonant, giving voice to the film’s powerful narrative. The nomination for “I Lied To You” not only highlights the exceptional songwriting but also Coogler’s visionary use of music as a central narrative force in a film that is a major contender across multiple Golden Globe categories, including Best Motion Picture – Drama.
Other Nominations in the Category
While “I Lied To You” offers a unique, blues-infused entry, it faces competition from an array of globally recognized artists and cinematic moments:
“No Time To Die” from No Time To Die
This haunting and atmospheric track, performed by global superstar Billie Eilish, delivered a classic Bond theme with a modern, melancholic twist. Co-written with her brother Finneas O’Connell, it became an instant classic, capturing the espionage thriller’s gravitas and emotional depth.
“Stand Up” from Harriet
A truly inspiring and uplifting anthem, Cynthia Erivo’s “Stand Up” captures the indomitable spirit of Harriet Tubman. Co-written by Erivo herself with Joshuah Brian Campbell, the song is a gospel-infused powerhouse that not only showcases Erivo’s incredible vocal range but also serves as a rallying cry for freedom and justice. Its message is potent, making it a strong and moving nominee.
“Speak Now” from One Night in Miami…
This deeply moving and thought-provoking song, performed by Leslie Odom Jr., is central to the film’s exploration of civil rights, friendship, and responsibility. Co-written by Odom Jr. and Sam Ashworth, “Speak Now” is a soulful and contemplative piece that reflects the profound conversations and societal pressures faced by the film’s iconic characters. Its lyrical depth and Odom Jr.’s compelling performance make it a standout.
“Io sì (Seen)” from The Life Ahead
A tender and evocative ballad performed by Italian vocal sensation Laura Pausini, “Io sì (Seen)” (also known as “Seen”) speaks to themes of recognition, compassion, and human connection. Co-written by Pausini, Niccolò Agliardi, and the legendary Diane Warren (a Golden Globe and Oscar perennial), the song beautifully captures the film’s heartwarming story and Pausini’s powerful, expressive delivery ensures its emotional impact.
The Race to the Golden Globe
This year’s Best Original Song category shows the diverse ways music can elevate storytelling. From the raw blues of “I Lied To You” to the global pop appeal of Billie Eilish, the inspiring power of Cynthia Erivo, the soulful reflection of Leslie Odom Jr., and the emotional resonance of Laura Pausini, each song brings a unique strength to the competition.
“I Lied To You” has the advantage of being deeply embedded in the narrative of a critically celebrated film, creating an organic and unforgettable cinematic moment. Its authenticity and the powerful performances surrounding it could very well sway voters. As the countdown to the Golden Globes continues, the anticipation builds for which of these extraordinary songs will ultimately be recognized as the year’s finest.
