Filmmaker Ryan Coogler has provided a long-awaited update on his ambitious reboot of the iconic science fiction series The X-Files, a project first confirmed by creator Chris Carter over two years ago. Coogler, who has been immersed in other major projects such as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and the recently acclaimed Sinners, finally addressed the reboot during a special cemetery screening of Sinners.

Coogler revealed a deeply personal motivation behind taking on The X-Files, drawing a parallel to his work on the Creed franchise, which was inspired by his father's love for Rocky. “The X-Files is one of those things with my mom,” Coogler shared, emphasizing his desire to honor his mother, Joselyn, a devoted fan of the original Fox sci-fi drama. He stated, “My mom means the world to me... so this is a big one for me. I want to do right by her and the fans.” Notably, Coogler confirmed that his mother has already reviewed some of the material he has written for the series and is “fired up,” suggesting significant progress on the script.

While the project’s release date remains uncertain, the fact that Coogler is actively writing indicates that the X-Files reboot could be his next directorial endeavor. Rumors have circulated regarding the casting, with Danielle Deadwyler reportedly being eyed for a lead role. However, Coogler remained tight-lipped on the matter, stating he could “neither confirm nor deny” the speculation. He adopted a similar stance when asked about the potential return of original series stars Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny, whose iconic portrayals of Agents Scully and Mulder defined the show for many years.

Beyond The X-Files, Coogler’s recent success with Sinners continues to make headlines. The vampire horror film, which grossed over $350 million worldwide and became one of the highest-grossing horror movies of all time, is set for a special theatrical re-release. Audiences will have another opportunity to experience Sinners on select screens, including IMAX, from October 30 to November 5, coinciding with the Halloween season. An official line of Sinners-inspired costumes is also available at Spirit Halloween stores, underscoring the film’s cultural impact.

Sinners features Michael B. Jordan in a demanding dual role as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, who return to their Mississippi hometown after World War I to open a juke joint. Jordan’s performance has generated significant Oscar buzz for Best Lead Actor, recognition Coogler believes is well-deserved. Coogler praised Jordan’s performance, stating, “I do think he stepped it up to another level on this,” acknowledging the technical difficulty and emotional depth required for the role. The ensemble cast also includes Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Delroy Lindo, Wunmi Mosaku, Li Jun Li, Jack O’Connell, Jayme Lawson, and Omar Miller.

The film’s re-release celebration included a screening at the Cinespia event at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, an occasion particularly meaningful to Coogler. He expressed his excitement, calling it “a dream come true” and “my favorite event in Los Angeles.” Sinners holds the distinction of being the first movie ever shown at Cinespia in the same year it was released. During the event, Coogler also addressed a previous revelation by Machine Gun Kelly, who had reportedly backed out of an audition for Sinners due to discomfort with saying a particular word in the script. Coogler expressed understanding, commenting, “That’s understandable. I get it. I know he has a Black daughter, and acting is acting, but you have to be comfortable with whatever it is.”

Looking ahead, Coogler is also attached to direct the third Black Panther movie within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a project currently anticipated to follow The X-Files reboot. Fans eagerly await further updates on both his revival of the sci-fi classic and his future ventures.