Ryan Coogler - Good Hang with Amy Poehler Recap

Podcast: Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Published: 2026-01-13

Duration: 1 hr 4 min

Guests: Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson

Summary

Ryan Coogler discusses his collaborative approach in filmmaking, his creative inspirations, and the importance of collective storytelling.

What Happened

Amy Poehler welcomes Ryan Coogler, the acclaimed director known for films like Black Panther, Creed, and Fruitvale Station. They dive into Coogler's collaborative process, his long-standing partnerships with composer Ludwig Göransson and actor Michael B. Jordan. Coogler shares anecdotes from his childhood about his love for movies and the communal experience of watching films in theaters. He reflects on how his upbringing in Oakland and his background in football have influenced his career in filmmaking.

The conversation also touches on the creative process behind Coogler's latest film, Sinners, and how it draws from historical and cultural elements like the blues and the significance of twin characters. Coogler highlights the importance of bringing in collaborators early in the process, specifically mentioning how Ludwig was involved in the music development even before the script was finalized.

Ludwig Göransson, a long-time collaborator, is featured in the episode, discussing their first meeting at USC and the evolution of their working relationship. He reflects on the impact of the blues on both his and Coogler's families and how that influenced the music for Sinners.

Coogler speaks fondly of his late friend and colleague, Chadwick Boseman, sharing personal insights into Boseman's humor and work ethic on the set of Black Panther. He emphasizes the importance of being present and appreciative of the moment, a lesson he cherishes from his time with Boseman.

The episode touches on Coogler's personal life, including his marriage to Zinzi Evans and how their shared history and mutual support have been pivotal in his creative journey. He describes their dynamic as deeply collaborative, with Zinzi being a significant influence in honing his ideas and scripts.

Finally, Amy and Coogler discuss the transformative power of cinema and its ability to bring people together, evoking shared emotions and experiences. Coogler expresses his love for creating films that resonate with audiences on a deep, emotional level, aspiring to leave a lasting impact through storytelling.

Key Insights

• Ryan Coogler's film 'Sinners' incorporates historical and cultural elements such as the blues and the concept of twin characters, with composer Ludwig Göransson involved in music development before the script was finalized.
• Ryan Coogler's upbringing in Oakland and his background in football have significantly influenced his collaborative filmmaking approach, emphasizing teamwork and community.
• Chadwick Boseman's work ethic and humor on the set of 'Black Panther' left a lasting impact on Ryan Coogler, who values being present and appreciative of the moment based on his experiences with Boseman.
• Ryan Coogler and his wife Zinzi Evans maintain a deeply collaborative relationship, with Evans playing a crucial role in refining Coogler's ideas and scripts, contributing significantly to his creative process.