Sev Ohanian Says Bringing 'Sinners' to Armenia Was a Dream Come True

Hollywood producer Sev Ohanian called the Armenia premiere of Ryan Coogler's film "Sinners" a dream fulfilled, according to an exclusive interview with The Armenian Report. Ohanian traveled to Yerevan for the 23rd Golden Apricot International Film Festival, where the film screened for Armenian audiences for the first time.

"It's literally a dream come true," Ohanian said.

What Armenian connections were on the 'Sinners' crew?

Ohanian revealed several Armenian links behind the scenes of the production. While reviewing the crew list, he noticed the surname of the film's lead caterer, Chris Koeroghlian, who proudly traces his heritage through his grandfather. The crew eventually served lahmajun-inspired pizza to the cast. A Warner Bros. attorney named Talin, who is also Armenian, worked on the film's legal team. "A happy, well-fed crew makes a good movie," Ohanian remarked.

How does Ohanian view Armenian storytelling?

The producer, who is Armenian-American, spoke about the importance of cultural specificity in film. He said he now speaks proudly about his Armenian background in Hollywood and believes stories rooted in a specific culture often connect most deeply with audiences worldwide. He also praised the work ethic of Armenian filmmakers, stating, "That Armenian work ethic — creating despite limited resources — is something we've demonstrated for centuries. Hollywood could probably learn a little more from us."

Ohanian reflected on the community he found at the Academy Awards, where "Sinners" earned multiple Oscars. Quoting a familiar saying, he added, "Anywhere two Armenians meet, we form our Armenia." Returning to Armenia for the festival carried that same feeling for him. "The fact that Armenia has an international festival like this, where Armenian filmmakers can share their work with the world, means everything," he said.