In 2022’s *Puss in Boots: The Last Wish*, the character of a hooded Wolf, voiced by Wagner Moura, chases after the iconic feline, Puss, portrayed by Antonio Banderas, wielding twin sickles reminiscent of a character from *Soulcalibur*. This striking scene has unexpectedly influenced a major film project: Ryan Coogler’s upcoming film, *Sinners*. Coogler, a well-known director with a track record of billion-dollar grossing films, has cited the DreamWorks Animation feature as a significant inspiration for his new work.
Inspiration Behind *Sinners*
In a recent conversation on the *Get Rec’d* podcast, Coogler elaborated on how the villain in *Sinners*, named Remmick and played by Jack O’Connell, draws inspiration from the animated Wolf. Coogler noted the shared characteristic of ominous red eyes between the two characters. This connection highlights how cinematic elements can transcend genres, with a light-hearted animated character inspiring a villain designed to evoke fear in audiences.
Notable Character Inspirations in Film
Coogler’s revelation isn’t unique; various characters in film have emerged from unexpected sources. The menacing appearance of Davy Jones from *Pirates of the Caribbean* was inspired by the look of a coffee-stained cup, showcasing how everyday items can shape creative visions. Similarly, Christian Bale’s portrayal of Patrick Bateman in *American Psycho* was influenced by Tom Cruise’s unnervingly friendly demeanor during a television interview. Additionally, the design of *WALL-E* was inspired by a moment of playfulness experienced by director Andrew Stanton while using binoculars at a baseball game.
The Ripple Effect of Animation on Cinema
This demonstrates that some of the most enduring characters in film can emerge from seemingly trivial occurrences or the imaginative realms of animated storytelling. The influence of a simple animated feature like *Puss in Boots* can extend into serious cinematic narratives, showcasing the interconnectedness of storytelling across different media.