Details surrounding the backstory of the Smokestack Twins, Elijah “Smoke” Moore and Elias “Stack” Moore, are emerging as their film “Sinners” receives Oscar nominations. Director Ryan Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan recently shared new insights into the twins’ lives prior to the events depicted in the movie.
Early Lives and Separation
The film centers on the twins’ return to Clarksdale, Mississippi in 1932, with the ambition of building a business – Club Juke – owned and operated by Black people. However, the road to establishing their vision is fraught with danger. Coogler and Jordan revealed that the twins’ journey began with a violent act: the killing of their father. Following this, they sought refuge at Mary’s mother’s home before enlisting in the military and fighting in France.
Upon returning home from the war, the twins’ paths diverged again. Stack rekindled a relationship with Mary, who had grown older, while Smoke pursued a connection with Annie. This period of separation lasted three years, ending with the death of Smoke’s infant daughter, an event alluded to in the film, which ultimately drove the twins to Chicago.
Chicago and Connections to Organized Crime
In Chicago, the twins became involved with organized crime, working alongside Al Capone. Jordan explained that their role involved undertaking tasks that Capone himself couldn’t risk, as direct involvement would reveal his hand to rival gangs. They focused on identifying key players – “the Italians, the Hans” – and exploiting the existing power dynamics to forge their own path.
Jordan described Stack as the “true uncle” of the group, while Smoke embodied a more paternal role, acting as the “dad, grandpa or old man.” The full interview, where these details were revealed, is available on Coogler’s “In Proximity” podcast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the twins’ initial goal upon returning to Clarksdale?
Their goal was to create something for Black people, by Black people, in the name of ownership and authority, ultimately leading to the creation of “Club Juke.”
What event brought the twins back together after their three-year separation?
The death of Smoke’s infant daughter prompted the twins to reunite and seek opportunities in Chicago.
What kind of work did the twins do while involved with Al Capone?
They undertook jobs that Capone didn’t want to be directly linked to, as those tasks would reveal his involvement to rival gangs.
Given the detailed backstory now being shared, will filmmakers explore the twins’ earlier adventures in a future project?
