Clarksdale, Mississippi Seeks "Sinners" Screening in Town Without a Theater
Clarksdale, Mississippi, the setting for Ryan Coogler’s film "Sinners," is buzzing with excitement as community leaders and city officials engage in preliminary discussions with Warner Bros. executives to bring a public screening of the movie to the town. This initiative comes in response to an open letter penned by local activist Tyler Yarbrough, addressed to Coogler, actor Michael B. Jordan, and the film’s cast, urging them to visit Clarksdale and share their work with the community.
The absence of an active movie theater in Clarksdale has made Yarbrough’s mission all the more pressing. Recognizing the cultural significance of "Sinners" and its connection to the town, he believes that a local screening would be a momentous occasion for residents.
Yarbrough, a 26-year-old Clarksdale native, confirmed that he and Mayor Chuck Espy have engaged in productive conversations with Warner Bros. executives. While discussions are ongoing and no concrete plans have been finalized, the potential for a screening is very real.
"Nothing is set in stone, not even a date or location," Yarbrough stated, emphasizing that the discussions are still in the early stages. "I want us to co-create something with Warner Bros. that feels authentic, feels good for them and our community."
Yarbrough’s vision extends beyond a simple screening. He hopes to collaborate with Warner Bros. to create an event that celebrates Clarksdale’s unique culture and heritage. This includes potential panel discussions featuring local residents, visits to iconic juke joints like Reds Juke Joint and Ground Zero Blues Club (co-owned by Morgan Freeman), and opportunities for the cast and crew to experience the town’s vibrant music scene and agricultural landscape.
Clarksdale, situated approximately 155 miles northwest of Jackson, Mississippi, and 80 miles southwest of Memphis, Tennessee, boasts a rich history as a pivotal hub for blues music. Yarbrough’s deep affection for his hometown stems from its people, talent, possibilities, and dreams.
With an estimated population of 14,000 as of 2023, Clarksdale currently lacks an operating movie theater. This unfortunate situation has forced residents like Yarbrough to travel significant distances to watch films, including "Sinners."
Inspired by conversations with fellow residents who expressed disappointment at not being able to view the film locally, Yarbrough launched a petition advocating for a Clarksdale screening. The petition has garnered nearly 6,000 signatures, demonstrating the community’s strong desire to see "Sinners" on their home turf.
Yarbrough praised "Sinners" for capturing the essence of the Mississippi Delta, despite being filmed in various locations in Louisiana. The film, set in the 1930s, revolves around Smoke and Stack (both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan), who return to their small town from Chicago to establish a juke joint. However, their plans are disrupted by unwelcome guests with violent intentions.
In his open letter, Yarbrough underscored the potential for a visit from the cast and crew to shed light on Clarksdale’s history and legacy. He envisioned an event that would not only showcase the film but also highlight the town’s cultural treasures and community spirit.
Mayor Espy has expressed his full support for Yarbrough’s endeavors. He believes that a screening of "Sinners" in Clarksdale would be a significant moment for the town, attracting visitors from beyond the state and providing an opportunity to showcase its unique culture.
"The community has come together, and it gives us an opportunity to highlight not only a great movie, but also to show the culture here in Clarksville," Espy stated.
Both Yarbrough and Espy are eager to host the event before Juneteenth, recognizing the potential for increased tourism and community engagement during that period. They view the screening as a catalyst for promoting Clarksdale as a destination for cultural tourism and celebrating its rich heritage.
"I’m really thankful that people like Tyler Yarbrough exist, and he cares about his community," Espy added. "When a person steps up and takes it to that next level…we have to give him 110% support."
The prospect of a "Sinners" screening in Clarksdale has ignited a sense of hope and excitement within the community. Yarbrough’s initiative, coupled with Mayor Espy’s unwavering support, has the potential to transform the town’s cultural landscape and bring national attention to its rich history and vibrant spirit. As discussions with Warner Bros. continue, the residents of Clarksdale eagerly await the possibility of welcoming the cast and crew of "Sinners" and celebrating their film in the very place that inspired it. The collaborative effort promises an authentic and enriching experience for both the studio and the community, solidifying Clarksdale’s place as a cultural gem in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. The town hopes to use the potential event to revitalize its image, bring economic benefits, and instill a sense of pride within its residents. The absence of a movie theater will hopefully be temporarily solved, allowing everyone to partake in this monumental occasion.
