“Sinners,” the Delta blues-influenced vampire movie filmed in Louisiana that became a critical and box office smash, made Oscar history Thursday — earning a record-breaking 16 nominations for the 98th Academy Awards.
Director Ryan Coogler’s movie about identical twins who open a speakeasy in the 1930s Mississippi Delta, only to encounter sinister forces, topped previous record-holders “La La Land,” “Titanic” and “All About Eve,” the Associated Press reported.
The nominations include Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress for Wunmi Mosaku and Best Original Screenplay.
“Sinners” also took home two awards for Best Original Score and Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the Golden Globes.
“One Battle After Another,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Teyana Taylor, received 13 nominations. Director Paul Thomas Anderson’s movie about a washed up revolutionary who must rescue his daughter was considered the favorite, which won Best Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy) at the Golden Globes.
While “Sinners” is set in Clarksdale, Mississippi, the crew used New Orleans, Donaldsonville and Bogalusa as a stand-in cities.
Several Louisiana actors and artists worked on the movie’s production.
‘Sinners’ director Ryan Coogler sets up a shot with actors Delroy Lindo, left, and Michael B. Jordan.
PHOTO BY ELI ADÉ