The film “Sinners” has made history ahead of the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 15, by earning a record-breaking 16 nominations. Two University of California alumni, Sev Ohanian and Autumn Durald Arkapaw, played key roles in the film’s success and are expected to attend the ceremony as nominees.
This achievement is significant as it highlights the impact of UC alumni in the film industry and marks a milestone for diversity in Oscar nominations. Arkapaw is only the fourth woman ever nominated for cinematography and could become the first to win in that category.
Ohanian, a UC San Diego graduate, produced “Sinners” through Proximity Media, which he co-founded with director Ryan Coogler and Zinzi Coogler. Reflecting on his education at UC San Diego, Ohanian said his professors challenged traditional storytelling methods: “My work challenges mainstream notions of storytelling and filmmaking. UC San Diego and the Visual Arts Department were part of my foundational education in filmmaking.” He described his role as a creative producer: “Producers are involved in just about every decision that goes into making a movie… Our boss is also the audience that will one day (hopefully) watch our film and we want to do the best work for them.”
Arkapaw began her journey with a UCLA Extension course in cinematography that changed her life. The film itself blends horror with deeper themes rooted in culture and music. Ohanian explained how their production company aims to tell stories about overlooked subjects: “If we can make a movie that’s really specific… it’s a bit more unique. I think ‘Sinners’ is a great example of that.” He also shared behind-the-scenes challenges during filming in Louisiana’s swamps and recounted how music became central to both story and production.
The blues play an important role in “Sinners,” set in 1932 Mississippi where music becomes both weapon and legacy for its characters. UCLA ethnomusicologist Cheryl Keyes discussed how the film explores Black musical traditions, spirituality, and resilience through its narrative.
Ohanian said he never expected such awards recognition: “I think that the fact that audiences appreciate the movie… gives me optimism that we can make more movies like this.” As anticipation builds for Oscar night, both Ohanian and Arkapaw represent not only personal achievements but also broader progress within Hollywood.
