Exploring the Thrills of 2025’s Horror Cinema: A Look at HIM
As a horror enthusiast, I must admit that 2025 has been an exhilarating year for new releases in the genre. My expectations have consistently been met or even surpassed by the chilling films I’ve eagerly anticipated. The year kicked off with Drew Hancock’s Accomplice, which delivered unexpected twists and a unique tonal balance. Since than, I’ve experienced numerous remarkable cinematic journeys, with standout titles including The monkey, Sinners, The Rule Of Jenny Pen, Last Destination: Bloodlines, Lift Her Reduction, 28 Years Later, Together, Weapons, and The Long Walk.
A Closer Look at HIM: A Football-Themed Horror Experience
Release Date: September 19, 2025
Director: Justin Tipping
Casting: Tyriq Withers, Marlon Wayans, Julia Fox, Jim Jefferies, Tim Heidecker
Maturity Rating: R for intense violence, strong language throughout, sexual content, nudity and some drug use
Total Runtime: 96 minutes
No hot streak lasts forever; thus it feels fitting that my run of thrilling horror films comes to an end with director Justin Tipping’s latest offering:
This film exemplifies how various intriguing components can fail to create a cohesive whole. While it boasts striking nightmarish visuals and strong performances from Tyriq Withers and Marlon Wayans—alongside commentary on contemporary sports culture—the blend of reality-bending elements leaves much to be desired. the film struggles to maintain tension as it oscillates between “what is real?” moments without fully committing to any one direction. The story follows Cameron Cade (withers), an aspiring star quarterback groomed for greatness his entire life. Just before showcasing his skills at the scouting combine—a pivotal moment marking his transition from college success to professional stardom—Cameron suffers a life-altering injury during solitary training when he is brutally attacked. This traumatic brain injury jeopardizes his future prospects until he receives an unexpected opportunity from Isaiah White (Wayans), his long-time idol who offers him training at his private facility. if prosperous during this rigorous regimen, cameron could become White’s successor as quarterback for the San Antonio Saviors—a fictional team reminiscent of NFL dynamics without any official licensing ties evident in its portrayal. This stylistic choice serves both positive and negative functions; while it’s bold and captivating enough to keep audiences engaged initially—it risks becoming overwhelming without proper escalation or resolution as events unfold chaotically rather than building suspense effectively over time. The structure follows Cameron’s daily experiences under Isaiah’s guidance categorized by themes such as “Poise,” “Leadership,” “Resilience,” “Vision,” and “Sacrifice.” As he becomes ensnared within grueling drills combined with therapy sessions—and perhaps even drug use—the audience may feel similarly trapped within repetitive cycles devoid of important progression until reaching climactic moments where chaos reigns supreme yet lacks sufficient buildup leading up towards them. Taking center stage are tyriq Withers alongside marlon Wayans who both rise admirably amidst all madness presented onscreen! For Wayans especially—it might very well be argued this marks one of his finest performances as appearing dramatically back twenty-five years ago opposite Ellen Burstyn within Darren Aronofsky’s acclaimed work titled Requiem For A Dream! Simultaneously occurring young talent shines brightly portraying innocence coupled alongside quiet strength necessary throughout their character arcs’ advancement journey! Demented imagery paired together along vibrant stylistic choices ensures anyone watching HIM won’t forget easily—but whether they’ll embrace what unfolds remains uncertain given how far-reaching ambitions exceed final execution quality overall! It might not qualify strictly speaking underwhelming entry point halloween Season 2025—but disappointment lingers nonetheless!A Mixed Bag of Elements that Don’t Quite Coalesce
A Unique Visual Style That Engages Yet Confuses
Pacing Issues Detract From Overall Impact
An Impressive cast Elevates material Despite Flaws
A Memorable Experience But Not Without Shortcomings