Full Breakdown
"HIM": A Polarizing Blend of Horror and Sports Drama
9/26/2025, 11:05:30 PM
Overview of the Film's Premise
"HIM," directed by Justin Tipping and produced by Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions, merges psychological horror with the high-stakes world of football. The film follows Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers), a promising quarterback whose career is jeopardized by a severe brain injury. Seeking redemption, he trains under the mentorship of Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans), a charismatic football legend. Their journey takes them to a secluded compound, where the narrative quickly descends into nightmarish rituals and extreme tests that blur the lines between ambition and obsession.
Critical Reception and Box Office Performance
Upon its release, "HIM" opened in U.S. theaters on September 19, 2025, earning approximately $13.5 million in its opening weekend. Despite its intriguing premise, the film has received mixed to negative reviews, currently holding a 29% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a C- CinemaScore from audiences. Critics have described the film as ambitious yet flawed, with some praising its performances while others criticized its lack of narrative coherence. RogerEbert.com labeled it "incomprehensibly bad," while Empire called it "a wild ride" that showcases bold storytelling choices.
Themes and Symbolism
The film attempts to tackle several themes, including the sacrifices demanded by toxic hero worship and the exploitation of athletes. Critics have noted that "HIM" draws parallels between football and gladiatorial combat, exploring inherited trauma and the glorification of violence in American culture. However, the film's ambition to address these complex themes has led to a crowded narrative that some viewers found confusing.
Performances and Direction
Marlon Wayans' portrayal of Isaiah White has been highlighted as a standout performance, embodying both mentorship and menace. Tyriq Withers, as Cameron Cade, delivers a compelling performance that reflects the character's physical and psychological struggles. Critics have noted the chemistry between Wayans and Withers as a key element that anchors the film's tension. Tipping's directorial vision has been scrutinized for its reliance on allegory and metaphor, which some argue detracts from the film's overall clarity.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While "HIM" has sparked discussions about its thematic depth, opinions on its execution vary widely. Some viewers appreciate its ambition and unique genre fusion, while others find it disjointed and frustrating. The film's box office performance has also raised questions about the viability of genre-blending projects in mainstream cinema.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As Tipping shared with The Hollywood Reporter, “To service the sports and horror audiences at the same time, on the heels of the game’s body horror, I leaned into the psychohorror opportunities…” — Justin Tipping, Director
- “Deadline emphasized that the film collapses under the weight of its ideas.” — Deadline Review
- “Mixed and Positive Takes Empire called it “a wild ride” that, while flawed, demonstrates bold storytelling choices.” — Empire Review
- “Marlon Wayans, an actor usually known for his ridiculously silly comedies, flexes with his best performance here no doubt.” — Christopher Vernon, Film Critic
In summary, "HIM" stands as a polarizing entry in contemporary cinema, challenging audiences with its ambitious blend of horror and sports drama while eliciting a wide range of reactions from critics and viewers alike.
