Marlon Wayans is eager to take on more substantial and challenging roles following his appearance in the surreal horror film HIM. With nearly four decades in the entertainment industry, he insists audiences have yet to see his full range, emphasizing his desire for weightier opportunities that allow him to showcase his depth as a leading man.
Plot Overview of HIM and Marlon Wayans’ Character
In HIM, Wayans embodies Isaiah White, a celebrated quarterback for the San Antonio Saviors confronting his impending retirement from football. Despite Isaiah’s belief in his enduring talents, sports analysts doubt his continued relevance, a sentiment that frustrates his loyal fanbase. When Cameron Cade, an up-and-coming player, is attacked during the draft season and must withdraw, Isaiah extends an unexpected invitation for him to train at his secluded estate. Yet, Isaiah’s growing insecurities threaten to transform what seemed like a beneficial arrangement into a tense and unsettling experience.
Wayans’ Commitment to Expanding His Acting Range
Wayans spoke candidly about his career ambitions in an interview with GamesRadar+ ahead of the UK premiere of HIM, produced by Jordan Peele. He declared,
“I’m not done. I have a long career, and y’all haven’t seen the best of me. I have not had the opportunity.”
He likened this phase of his career to iconic leading periods of actors like Denzel Washington, Tom Cruise, and Will Smith, expressing his readiness for roles that demand more responsibility and complexity.
“Give me something to carry. I need something heavier to carry,”
he stated.
“Let me show you. I got this whole load and I won’t crumble.”
Director Justin Tipping’s Role in Wayans’ New Chapter
Wayans credited director Justin Tipping, who co-wrote HIM with Skip Bronkie and Zack Akers, for providing him with fresh opportunities. He described the experience as a breakthrough, saying,
“I’ve spent my lifetime preparing for every moment that’s coming my way. I’ve been having to create those moments. Finally, somebody said, ‘Here, here’s this moment.’”
Praising the director’s trust, Wayans added,
“It was like, ‘What? You’re giving me this? I don’t have to hunt for food?’ But nah, I’m still gonna go hunt and bring something to the plate, and I feel like it is a new beginning for me.”
He also highlighted the demanding nature of his role, aiming to perform as the “GOAT” in his craft, with a desperate and relentless drive to excel.
Wayans Embraces Improvisation While Preparing for HIM
On set, Wayans enjoyed an unrestrained level of creative freedom with Tipping’s direction. He recalled,
“Justin let me off the chain. I got to roam and be crazy, and be unpredictable. It was like, ‘Hey, here’s the lines. Let’s throw those out. Say what you want to say. What do you feel? What would Isaiah say to Cam?’”
He described the process as spontaneous and unpredictable, contributing to the film’s unique tone.
“And it was unpredictable. It was crazy, and we didn’t know where [Justin] was going,”
Wayans said, praising Tipping’s visionary approach that kept both cast and crew engaged and curious about the unfolding narrative.
Marlon Wayans’ Career Trajectory and Recent Projects
Although known primarily for his comedic work, including the Scary Movie franchise he co-created with brothers Shawn and Keenen Wayans, Marlon has expressed a clear intent to diversify his roles. Beyond comedy, Wayans appeared in Darren Aronofsky’s intense Requiem for a Dream early in his career. While he continues to be involved in humorous projects—the Wayans brothers are currently filming the sixth installment of the Scary Movie series, reuniting original stars Regina Hall and Anna Faris—he is simultaneously seeking opportunities like HIM that challenge his range and allow him to redefine his image.
Reception and Release Details for HIM
HIM has sparked divided responses, with the film scoring 29% on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting mixed critical opinions. Wayans, however, stands by the innovative nature of his films despite their often controversial reception, stating, “Innovation is not always embraced.” The horror movie arrives as a Jordan Peele-produced project and blends elements reminiscent of Nosferatu and Ex Machina, focusing on the tensions between two quarterbacks. HIM is already available in the United States and is set to hit UK cinemas on October 3.
The Broader Importance of Roles Like HIM for Wayans
For Marlon Wayans, HIM represents more than just another credit; it marks a turning point in his pursuit of serious acting roles that carry emotional weight and complexity. His commitment to stepping beyond comedic boundaries signals a potential shift in his career, offering audiences a deeper look into his capabilities as a leading actor. As he continues to collaborate with visionary creators like Jordan Peele and Justin Tipping, Wayans aims to carve out a space where he can fully demonstrate his versatility and strength on screen.
