Quick Read
- Jordan Peele-produced horror film ‘Him’ releases on September 19.
- Directed by Justin Tipping, the movie stars Tyriq Withers as a rising quarterback mentored by Marlon Wayans.
- The film explores the dark side of ambition, idolatry, and mentorship.
- The trailer reveals intense psychological manipulation and brutal training sequences.
- The script was part of the ‘Black List’ of promising screenplays.
Jordan Peele, known for redefining modern horror with hits like Get Out, Us, Nope, and Candyman, is back as a producer for the highly anticipated football horror film Him. Directed by Justin Tipping and produced under Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, Him is set to hit theaters on September 19, promising a chilling exploration of ambition, mentorship, and sacrifice.
The Premise: Football Meets Psychological Horror
Him tells the story of Cameron Cade, portrayed by Tyriq Withers, a young quarterback whose life revolves around football. Cameron’s career takes a devastating turn after he suffers a traumatic brain injury caused by an unhinged fan. Just when hope seems lost, he receives an invitation from his idol, Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans), an eight-time championship-winning quarterback, to train at Isaiah’s secluded compound. However, what starts as a dream opportunity spirals into a psychological nightmare. Isaiah’s intense and often violent training methods push Cameron to his limits, forcing him to confront the dark side of his ambition.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film features a diverse and talented cast. Tyriq Withers, a former college football wide receiver, brings authenticity to his role as Cameron Cade. Marlon Wayans steps into a darker, more complex role as Isaiah White, blending charm and menace seamlessly. Julia Fox portrays Elsie White, Isaiah’s influencer wife, who adds another layer of intrigue to the story. Supporting cast members include Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Naomi Grossman, and MMA fighter Maurice Greene, alongside hip-hop artists Guapdad 4000 and Tierra Whack.
A Trailer That Teases Tension
The official trailer for Him, released on August 6, offers a glimpse into the film’s dark and unsettling narrative. It showcases Cameron’s admiration for Isaiah and his determination to achieve greatness, juxtaposed with scenes of brutal punishments and psychological manipulation. Isaiah’s chilling line, “In this game, violence is rewarded. So learn to enjoy it,” sets the tone for the film’s exploration of the sacrifices demanded by ambition. The trailer ends with a haunting image of Cameron, bloodied but triumphant, raising his arms amid cheerleaders—a foreboding hint of what’s to come.
A Collaborative Masterpiece
The script for Him was penned by Zack Akers, Skip Bronkie, and director Justin Tipping. Notably, the screenplay was part of the prestigious “Black List” of promising unproduced scripts, highlighting its potential even before production began. Peele’s involvement as a producer, alongside Ian Cooper, Win Rosenfeld, Jamal M. Watson, and others, ensures that the film carries the hallmarks of his distinctive style—social commentary, psychological depth, and visceral horror.
Why Him Matters
Him is not just another horror film; it’s a commentary on the pressures of greatness and the idolization of sports figures. By blending the physicality of sports with the psychological terror of horror, the film challenges viewers to reconsider what they’re willing to sacrifice for success. As Mashable notes, the film offers a “chilling journey into the inner sanctum of fame, idolatry, and the pursuit of excellence at any cost.”
*As audiences prepare for the September 19 release, Him promises to deliver not just scares but also a thought-provoking narrative about ambition, mentorship, and the human cost of success.*