Monkeypaw Productions’ highly anticipated movie “HIM” was shown to AUC students in an exclusive screening Wednesday night.
The movie starred Marlon Wayans as Isaiah White, a USFF quarterback who is known as the GOAT. Following behind him is Tyriq Withers playing Cameron Cade, a star college quarterback that is the projected No. 1 pick and the next White.
The movie was directed by Justin Tipping but produced by Jordan Peele. Peele’s influence was present throughout the film with the title, camera shots and tension building moments throughout the movie. For those who love Peele, you will spot the moments where Tipping includes his signature filmography.
“HIM” centers on the phrase “greatness requires sacrifice,” a theme Tipping carries through the film. Cade, a young quarterback, grew up idolizing White and ended up becoming a great player himself. When White invites Cade to his home to train, it’s an offer he cannot refuse.
Cade wants to be just as good and even better than his idol. White is saying what it takes to surpass him, which causes him to accept all that he is asked of.
One of the strongest elements of the film is the chemistry between Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers. The two actors feed off each other naturally. Traits of Cade are mirrored in White, while Cade gradually grows into the mold of his idol.
Wayans’ comedic timing stood out in the horror-thriller. His dialogue felt realistic with Withers and many times you would forget you are watching a movie. Withers also threw back some comedic one-liners that viewers will enjoy. Nothing felt forced when the two communicated on screen.
The imagery also deserve praise. Tipping and his crew did an excellent job at telling the story silently in the background. Viewers should pay attention to each scene because Tipping and Peele are making each scene as impactful as possible.
The film also leans heavily on religious symbolism. Religion can be spotted throughout the film and it is once again a play on the social-cultural system that many follow. As the movie is playing, the question of “what are you willing to sacrifice” will continuously be asked and it is up to Cade to decide that.
While the film’s first two acts were engaging and paced well, the final act seemed rushed. A climatic moment between Cade and White had been carefully built up, but the movie suddenly accelerates and reaches the scene much faster than expected. The tone shifts as well, with misplaced humor undercutting the tension. A sloppy finish to a great movie to begin with.
Overall, I would rate the movie 3.5 stars out of 5. A unique movie that will hook its viewers. With a more polished conclusion, “HIM” could have ranked alongside other Monkeypaw Productions films such as “Nope.” Instead, it is a film that falls short of its football premise and leaves more wanting to be seen.
