Texas Native Interpreter of Black American Sign Language for “Sinners” Movie

If you haven’t had a chance to check out “Sinners” yet, you’re in for a treat! This thrilling vampire movie, released in theaters this April, is already making waves as one of the best films of 2025 so far. But here’s the exciting news: you can now stream it on HBO Max. And here’s the best part – Warner Bros. Pictures has made history by offering the movie in Black American Sign Language (BASL) for the first time ever in streaming.

In a recent statement, Warner Bros. expressed their excitement about this milestone in accessibility, representation, and visibility. BASL, a unique dialect of American Sign Language (ASL), offers a more immersive experience for the Black Deaf community and ASL users who may be unfamiliar with this specific dialect.

Nakia Smith, a Texas native and influential figure in the Black Deaf community, has taken on the task of interpreting “Sinners” in BASL. This is a significant opportunity for Smith, who is no stranger to advocating for better representation. Her skill and dedication to BASL have earned her this momentous role, and she’s grateful for the chance to bring authentic representation to the film.

Interpreting a full-length feature film like “Sinners” presented its challenges, especially with heavy dialogue and expressive scenes. Smith shared that interpreting in real-time requires quick thinking and a deep understanding of the context. With guidance from performance artist Rosa Lee Timm, Smith navigated the nuances of the film, ensuring that the cultural authenticity of BASL was preserved.

The feedback on the streaming release of “Sinners” with BASL has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and cultural representation. BASL isn’t just another variation of ASL; it’s a language with its own grammar, expressions, and deep ties to the Black Deaf community. By including BASL in the streaming experience, Warner Bros. and HBO Max are not only providing access but also honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Black Deaf experience.

The goal of making great stories accessible to all audiences while staying true to the content and communities served is paramount for Warner Bros. and HBO Max. So, if you’re looking for a new and unique viewing experience, grab some popcorn and dive into “Sinners” on HBO Max with BASL interpretation.