Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions presents HIM, a film blending sports inspiration with chilling horror elements, set to debut in theaters on September 19. The movie follows the journey of Cameron Cade, a promising quarterback whose determination to succeed faces unforeseen and terrifying challenges, making this Jordan Peele football nightmare movie a unique addition to the genre.
Plot Unfolds From Hopeful Rise to Dark Descent
Directed by Justin Tipping, known for Kicks, HIM starts like a familiar sports drama, evoking the spirit of Friday Night Lights or the energy of a Nike or Gatorade commercial. However, as Tipping noted, the story intentionally diverges from these expectations, shifting into a darker narrative that unsettles viewers. Cameron Cade, played by Tyriq Withers, is a former college wide receiver and rising star quarterback. Just before the crucial professional scouting Combine, Cameron is violently attacked by an unstable fan, resulting in a severe brain injury that threatens to end his career.
Mentorship with a Sinister Twist
When all hope seems lost, Cameron is given a chance at recovery and advancement by Isaiah White, portrayed by Marlon Wayans. Isaiah is an eight-time championship-winning quarterback and cultural icon who offers to train Cameron at his secluded compound. Alongside Isaiah is his glamorous influencer wife Elsie White, brought to life by Julia Fox. As Cameron’s rigorous training progresses, Isaiah’s initially magnetic presence turns increasingly menacing, pushing Cameron into a dangerous psychological spiral with high stakes beyond sport.
Supporting Cast Brings Diverse Talents to the Screen
The film’s ensemble includes comedian Tim Heidecker, Australian comic Jim Jefferies, and MMA fighter Maurice Greene, all making significant appearances. Additionally, hip hop artists Guapdad 4000 and Tierra Whack make their feature film debuts, enriching the movie’s atmosphere with fresh voices. The screenplay is a collaboration between writers Skip Bronkie, Zack Akers, and Justin Tipping himself.
The Intersection of Fame, Ambition, and Horror in ‘HIM’
Produced by the team behind groundbreaking films such as Get Out, Us, Candyman, and Nope, HIM offers a compelling look at the costs of chasing greatness, filtered through the lens of horror. It challenges the notion of athletic heroism by exposing its darker undercurrents tied to fame and obsession. As Cameron Cade’s story unfolds, HIM questions how far one is willing to go to achieve success and what can be sacrificed in the process.
Director’s Vision Blends Sports and Horror Imagery
Justin Tipping explained his approach to the film’s tone:
“My instinct was to set it up in a way that it feels like we’re in Friday Night Lights, or a Gatorade or Nike ad. We’re rooting for the kid who just needs to unlock one thing to take it to the next level. And then we subvert the expectations and let it… evolve or devolve — depending on your sensibilities — into something it’s not.”
—Justin Tipping, Director
Anticipation for a Genre-Bending Release
HIM promises to deliver a powerful cinematic experience that combines the energy of a sports drama with an unsettling horror narrative, deepening the dialogue around the price of ambition in the competitive world of football. With its September release approaching, audiences can expect a film that both inspires and unnerves, marking a bold evolution in Jordan Peele’s production legacy.
