Welcome back to Mama We Made It! DJ and Reg continue their conversation with Nakeia Medcalf for a rich, SPOILER HEAVY! discussion on Ryan Coogler's latest film "Sinners." The trio brings their unique perspectives as Black Christians, exploring how the movie's treatment of faith, legacy, and the afterlife resonated with their own church upbringings. Nakeia dives into the Pentecostal echoes she felt throughout the film, from musical moments to themes of spiritual "crossing over." At the same time, Reg highlights the nuanced portrayal of family, community, and the southern Black experience. DJ reflects on how the film reawakened childhood memories of Sunday school and why small details like treats and color symbolism matter.

Together, they break down everything from the power dynamics between characters, the significance of southern setting as "character," and the use of imagery like plantation money and juke joints. The conversation also zooms out to examine Coogler's groundbreaking business deal—touching on artistic autonomy, ownership, and legacy in Hollywood. The episode closes with a round of favorite lines, thoughts on representation, and major love for Black creatives telling Black stories.

Resources:
Hannah Beachler and set design inspiration:
https://variety.com/2025/artisans/news/sinners-easter-egg-black-panther-howlin-wolf-hannah-beachler-1236378489/

Symbolism and subtext:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/movies/sinners-symbolism.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Hollywood undermining Sinners:
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/26/the-smash-success-of-sinners-could-shift-hollywoods-power-balance/

Key interesting reviews:
https://jacobin.com/2025/04/sinners-coogler-race-history-horror/

https://collider.com/what-should-hollywood-learn-from-sinners-success/

https://andscape.com/features/sinners-movie-brought-us-home-and-refused-to-let-vampires-take-it-from-us/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sinners-box-office-film_n_680abd8be4b031fa917d7773

Ryan Coogler Kodak video: technical discussion - aspect ratio, film stock, and more:
https://reactormag.com/sinners-director-ryan-coogler-explains-film-stock-and-aspect-ratios/

Ruth Carter interview on her process:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a64567733/sinners-ruth-e-carter-costumes-interview-2025/

Easter Eggs and hidden messages:
https://screenrant.com/sinners-secret-details-spotify-explainer/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tp7gnOcGxRA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In the second episode of Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg are joined by the insightful Nakeia Medcalf for a dynamic discussion of the provocative film "Sinners." SPOILER ALERT! The panel dives headfirst into their viewing experiences, unpacking how the film’s layered storytelling, vibrant spirituality, and powerful music shapes their emotional response. Drawing from their own backgrounds—ranging from Pentecostal and Baptist upbringings to horror fandom—they address the film's evocative exploration of faith, creativity, and trauma within Black communities.

Together, they spotlight unforgettable performances, giving major flowers to characters like Annie, Remick, and Sammy, and celebrate the nuanced casting that brings these roles to life. The trio also unpacks the film’s visual and sonic artistry, from stunning costume design to intentional color palettes, and reflect on how musical traditions like the blues embody resistance, survival, and connection across generations.

In their second-watch deep dive, the hosts uncover hidden symbols and references—like date callbacks to "Candyman" and the significance of names and places—that redefine what the film offers on repeat viewings. With laughter, candor, and personal insight, they explore what makes "Sinners" a must-see (and must-see-again) experience.

Resources:
Hannah Beachler and set design inspiration:
https://variety.com/2025/artisans/news/sinners-easter-egg-black-panther-howlin-wolf-hannah-beachler-1236378489/

Symbolism and subtext:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/movies/sinners-symbolism.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Hollywood undermining Sinners:
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/26/the-smash-success-of-sinners-could-shift-hollywoods-power-balance/

Key interesting reviews:
https://jacobin.com/2025/04/sinners-coogler-race-history-horror/

https://collider.com/what-should-hollywood-learn-from-sinners-success/

https://andscape.com/features/sinners-movie-brought-us-home-and-refused-to-let-vampires-take-it-from-us/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sinners-box-office-film_n_680abd8be4b031fa917d7773

Ryan Coogler Kodak video: technical discussion - aspect ratio, film stock, and more:
https://reactormag.com/sinners-director-ryan-coogler-explains-film-stock-and-aspect-ratios/

Ruth Carter interview on her process:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a64567733/sinners-ruth-e-carter-costumes-interview-2025/

Easter Eggs and hidden messages:
https://screenrant.com/sinners-secret-details-spotify-explainer/

Welcome to the pilot episode of "Mama, We Made It" with DJ and Reg. In this launch, the stage is set for what this podcast is all about—real conversations, lived experience, and helping people get free and flourish.

- How DJ and Reg's 40-year friendship shaped their journey and this show
- The true meaning behind "Mama, We Made It" and why it's for everyone
- Personal stories of loss, resilience, and pursuing human flourishing
- Honest talk about accountability, community, and supporting Black liberation

What listeners can expect from future episodes—guests, real talk, and no-holds-barred conversation
Subscribe and join us as we dig deep, laugh, reflect, and keep it real every week.

Interested in reading the article Reg referred to about the rate of black men in college? Check it out - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/30/us/black-men.html

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What does it mean to be Black in America? Longtime friends, Daryl Jones and Reginald Hamlett, are here to offer guidance and wisdom, gained through research, stories, and life experience. Mama, We Made It! With DJ and Reg, is your weekly reminder to embrace joy and find your path to flourishing.