Sports films have long been a source of motivational films, but what happens when the motivation is almost to horror levels? The latest film looking to slap the idea in the face with a new take is HIM starring Marlon Wayans, Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox, Tim Heidecker, and Jim Jefferies from director Justin Tipping and producer Jordan Peele. Could this film bring something unique and horrific, or will it fail to make the catch?

​

HIM follows a chilling journey into the dark side of the pursuit of excellence at any cost. Attacked by an unhinged fan, quarterback Cameron Cade receives a lifeline when his football idol Isaiah White offers to train him. But as Isaiah’s charisma curdles into something sinister, Cam descends a disorienting spiral that may cost him more than he bargained for. 

 

This is a film that is filled with multiple layers that work and miss at times. Separating from the more over the top nature the story is truly focused on the obsession to be the best and the sacrifices to get there. This aspect is fantastic as it pushes all the boundaries in every stage while creating a strange narrative that keeps you guessing where it is all headed. It really isn’t all that hard to figure the bigger picture out, but the journey is what makes it work if at all.

 

I think the direction it goes and the story it’s telling never fully merges, but understanding the message of the obsession and sacrifice makes you embrace what some will see as absurdity. I think there is an element of personal belief here as well that dictates how much of this hit with the viewer. The true strength of this film is the performances of Withers and Wayans as they both bring their A game. They are both great, but I thought Wayans himself was a scene stealer bringing so much swagger, confidence and insanity to the role.

 

​