What lengths would you go to achieve ultimate greatness? What sacrifices would you make to stand atop the world, the undisputed best in your field? These are the chilling questions posed in the Red Band trailer for Jordan Peele’s HIM.
Peele is the creative force behind horror films like Get Out, Us, Candyman, and Nope. HIM promises a gripping descent into the dark inner sanctum of fame and the pursuit of excellence at any cost. It features what is already being lauded as an electrifying dramatic performance by Marlon Wayans (Air, Respect, White Chicks). He plays a role unlike anything we’ve seen from him before.
A Tale of Obsession
HIM introduces us to Cameron Cade, played by former college wide receiver Tyriq Withers (“Atlanta”). Cam is a rising-star quarterback who has dedicated his entire life and identity to the world of football. On the crucial eve of professional football’s annual scouting Combine, a pivotal event that could launch his career into the stratosphere, Cam is violently attacked by an unhinged and obsessive fan. This brutal encounter leaves him with a potentially career-ending brain trauma, shattering his dreams and plunging his future into uncertainty.
When all hope seems lost, a lifeline emerges from an unexpected source. Cam’s lifelong hero, Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans), enters the picture. Isaiah is a legendary figure in the football world whose influence extends far beyond the gridiron. He offers to take Cam under his wing. And invites him to train at his secluded compound, a world away from the public’s prying eyes.
A Cost Too High to Pay
Initially, Cam’s training under the guidance of his idol seems like a dream come true, a miraculous second chance. However, as Cam’s physical and mental conditioning accelerates at an almost unsettling pace, Isaiah’s charismatic facade begins to curdle, revealing something far more sinister lurking beneath. His mentorship turns dark and twisted, sending his protégé down a disorienting and psychologically perilous rabbit hole. As Cam delves deeper into Isaiah’s world, he begins to realize that the price of achieving his dreams under this intense tutelage may cost him far more than he ever could have bargained for – perhaps even his very soul.
The film’s supporting cast includes Tim Heidecker (Us) and Jim Jefferies (“The Jim Jefferies Show”). HIM marks the feature film debuts of MMA heavyweight fighter Maurice Greene, hip hop phenoms Guapdad 4000, and Grammy nominee Tierra Whack.
A Brilliant Team Behind the Scenes
HIM is directed with a keen eye for suspense and psychological tension by Justin Tipping (Kicks), from an acclaimed Black List screenplay penned by the talented duo of Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie (“Limetown”) and Justin Tipping himself. The film is produced by an impressive team including Ian Cooper (Nope, Us), Jordan Peele (Candyman, BlacKkKlansman), Win Rosenfeld (Candyman), and Jamal M. Watson (Hala, Sprinter) for Monkeypaw Productions, with David Kern and Monkeypaw’s Kate Oh serving as executive producers.
Coming This Summer
With its compelling premise, stellar cast, and the pedigree of Jordan Peele, HIM promises to be a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of ambition and obsession. Get ready for a journey into the dark side of fame, where the price of glory might be your humanity. Witness the unsettling film HIM in theaters nationwide on September 19, 2025.
