HIM Review: Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers Deliver Unforgettable Performances

HIM is a bold, unsettling sports-driven tale that leaves its mark.

When HIM was first revealed, the excitement was undeniable. With Jordan Peele’s production company behind it, Marlon Wayans stepping into what appeared to be his most unhinged role yet, and rising talent Tyriq Withers at the center, expectations soared. For longtime fans of Wayans—who grew up watching him and his brothers—the prospect of seeing him in a dramatic role carried extra weight, especially after his strong turn in Peacock’s Bel-Air reboot as Will’s Dad.

For me, the anticipation only grew after covering Withers in I Know What You Did Last Summer, where he delivered a memorable performance. Having interviewed him, I was eager to see him carry a film of this scale.

Wayans and Withers Steal the Spotlight

Marlon Wayans absolutely delivers a career-defining performance. This is the kind of dramatic pivot that cements legacies, far removed from the comedy roles that made him a household name. He fully commits to the role of Isaiah White, a legendary quarterback whose mentorship teeters between inspiring and terrifying.

On the other side, Tyriq Withers shines brighter than Friday night lights. As Cameron Cade, a rising-star quarterback facing a brutal setback, Withers proves he’s the real deal. His on-screen presence cements him as a future MVP of the big screen.

Adding an unexpected layer is Tim Heidecker, best known for his surreal comedy on Tim and Eric. Here, he’s almost unrecognizable as an NFL agent, proving surprisingly effective in a straight, dramatic yet comedic role.

A Darker Playbook Than Expected

Directed by Justin Tipping, HIM positions itself as a sports horror film but plays more like a high-budget arthouse-style psychological thriller. The film takes risks by exploring identity, mentorship, and obsession against the backdrop of professional sports.

While rated R for language, nudity, and violence, the film doesn’t quite push its boundaries far enough. As a self-proclaimed scaredy cat, I braced for disturbing imagery, but the movie rarely went beyond uncomfortable. It could have leaned harder into shock value, blood, and needle-heavy terror to deliver an edgier experience.

That said, the film hits hard and plays fast, landing somewhere between nightmare and fever dream. It may leave audiences surprised—expecting pure horror but instead finding themselves caught in a surreal, spiraling descent into psychological dread.

Plot Breakdown

The story follows Cameron Cade (Withers), a promising quarterback who suffers a devastating brain injury after being attacked by a fan. Just when his career seems over, his idol, Isaiah White (Wayans), swoops in with an offer to train him at an isolated compound. But Isaiah’s charm soon takes a sinister turn, dragging Cameron into a dangerous descent.

The supporting cast includes Julia Fox as Isaiah’s influencer wife, Elsie, Jim Jefferies, Maurice Greene, Guapdad 4000, and Grammy nominee Tierra Whack, each adding unique energy to the mix.

Verdict

I give HIM 4 out of 5 stars. It is a bold psychological thriller that doesn’t always stick the landing but thrives on powerhouse performances. Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers elevate the material, delivering two of the year’s most unforgettable performances. While the film could have benefitted from sharper scares and riskier imagery, its heavy themes and disorienting style make it an experience worth watching.

In theaters everywhere September 19th.

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