HIM REVIEW: MARLON WAYANS AND TYRIQ WITHERS IMPRESS IN A JORDAN PEELE-PRODUCED SPORTS HORROR THAT FUMBLES ITS POTENTIAL
In a bold attempt to merge the worlds of horror and sports, Jordan Peele's production company, Monkeypaw Productions, has brought forth HIM, a film that promises to deliver a chilling tale of a rising star quarterback's descent into darkness. Unfortunately, despite impressive performances from Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers, the movie fails to live up to its potential, devolving into a surreal and often confusing narrative.
Directed by Justin Tipping (Kicks), HIM tells the story of Jamal, a talented young quarterback who is on the cusp of stardom. However, as he navigates the cutthroat world of professional football, he begins to experience strange and terrifying occurrences that threaten to destroy his career and his sanity.
Wayans, known for his comedic roles in films like Scary Movie, brings a level of depth and nuance to Jamal's character that is unexpected but welcome. Withers, who plays Jamal's teammate and confidant, also delivers a standout performance that adds to the film's tension and suspense.
Despite its promising start, HIM quickly loses steam in its second half, descending into a phantasmagoria of surreal imagery and confusing plot twists. While it attempts to explore themes of corporate greed, player exploitation, and the dehumanizing effects of professional sports, the film ultimately fails to deliver a coherent or compelling narrative.
"I think the problem with HIM is that it tries to tackle too many themes at once," said film critic, Peter Travers. "It's like they're trying to be a horror movie, a sports drama, and a social commentary all at the same time. It's just too much for one film to handle."
In contrast, North Dallas Forty, a 1979 sports drama directed by Richard Brooks, is still widely regarded as the definitive film about the dehumanizing effects of professional football in the corporate age.
HIM premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and has since been released in select theaters. While it may not live up to its full potential, the film's impressive performances and timely themes make it worth watching for fans of horror and sports alike.
Key Statistics:
HIM was produced by Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions
The film stars Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers as Jamal and his teammate
North Dallas Forty, a 1979 sports drama, is still widely regarded as the definitive film about the dehumanizing effects of professional football in the corporate age
Background Context:
Jordan Peele's production company, Monkeypaw Productions, has been making waves in the horror genre with films like Get Out and Us. With HIM, they attempt to merge the worlds of horror and sports, exploring themes of player exploitation and corporate greed.
Additional Perspectives:
"I think HIM is a bold attempt to explore some really important themes," said film director, Justin Tipping. "While it may not be perfect, I believe it's an important contribution to the conversation about professional sports and their impact on players."
Current Status and Next Developments:
HIM is currently playing in select theaters and will expand its release in the coming weeks. Fans of horror and sports can catch the film on the big screen or wait for its eventual release on streaming platforms.
*Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*
