Full Breakdown
Disappointing Box Office Performance for Jordan Peele's 'Him'
9/21/2025, 11:58:46 AM
Overview of the Film's Release
Jordan Peele's latest horror film, *Him*, debuted in theaters on September 19, 2025, amid a competitive box office landscape. The film, produced by Peele and directed by Justin Tipping, stars Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers. It follows the story of Cameron Cade, a rising quarterback whose career is jeopardized by an injury, only to be drawn into a dark training regimen by his childhood hero, Isaiah White, played by Wayans. Despite its intriguing premise, *Him* has faced significant challenges in its opening weekend.
Box Office Performance
*Him* opened to a disappointing $6.4 million on its first day and is projected to earn around $15 million over its opening weekend. This performance falls short of expectations, especially when compared to other horror hits released in 2025, such as *Sinners*, *Final Destination Bloodlines*, and *The Conjuring: Last Rites*. The film's budget was reported at $27 million, indicating a steep uphill battle to achieve profitability.
Critical Reception
The critical response to *Him* has been largely negative, with a current Rotten Tomatoes score of 28%. Critics have described the film as having a promising concept but failing to execute it effectively. The consensus notes that while the film has stylistic elements, it ultimately "fumbles the ball well before the red zone." Ross Bonaime from Collider remarked that the film "has a whole field to play on, and instead, it rushes and fumbles the ball."
Comparison with Other Releases
In the same weekend, *A Big Bold Beautiful Journey*, starring Margot Robbie, is also projected to underperform at the box office. This context highlights the challenges faced by new releases in a market dominated by established franchises and successful horror films. Peele's previous works, such as *Candyman* and *Monkey Man*, had better receptions, making the current situation particularly notable for the filmmaker.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that *Him* does not align with the high expectations set by Peele's previous films. The film's execution has been described as "rookie," leading to disappointment among audiences who anticipated a more sophisticated horror experience. This sentiment reflects a broader concern regarding the quality of new horror films in a year that has seen several successful entries.
Official Statements & Responses
While there have been no official statements from Jordan Peele or Universal Pictures regarding the film's performance, industry analysts suggest that the disappointing box office results may prompt a reevaluation of marketing strategies for future releases. The film's reception could influence how Peele approaches his next projects.
What's Next for Jordan Peele
As the weekend progresses, industry observers will be closely monitoring *Him*'s performance and its impact on Peele's reputation as a leading figure in contemporary horror. The film's struggles may lead to discussions about the direction of horror cinema and the expectations placed on filmmakers like Peele, who have previously set high standards in the genre.
In conclusion, *Him*'s lackluster debut raises questions about audience engagement with new horror narratives and the challenges of following up on a successful track record.
