One of the most highly anticipated horror films of the year is the Jordan Peele-produced film HIM. Earlier this month, the movie opened in theaters; however, it’s not the response the film’s stars, Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers, and filmmakers were hoping for.
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.
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.
The movie HIM is directed 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. David Kern and Monkeypaw’s Kate Oh serve as executive producers.
Regarding the film’s hostile reception, it currently holds a meager Rotten Tomatoes score of just 28% from critics, along with a 57% Popcornmeter score. That’s not good. The movie is getting descriptions like “botched,” and the word “fumble” is being used A LOT. It’s even being called “the worst horror movie of the year” by some. Ouch!
Star Marlon Wayans is, however, coming to the film’s defense. He took to social media saying that several of his movies were panned by critics, but went on to become classics, such as White Chicks and Scary Movie, which is a good point. I love White Chicks! He also brought up that art is suggestive, and I have to agree. We all have movies that we love, even if they weren’t a big hit with critics. And that’s okay. Not every movie will speak to everyone. And that’s okay too. I say give the movie a chance. Watch it and form your own opinion. If you hate it, you hate it. But there is a chance you won’t.
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