What would you sacrifice to become the greatest of all time? That’s the chilling question at the core of HIM, the new sports-horror hybrid produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions. Directed by Justin Tipping (Kicks), the film dares to fuse the intensity of football with psychological horror, mythology, and fame-driven obsession. It doesn’t always stick the landing, but its ambition, style, and powerhouse performances make it one of the most unique cinematic experiences of the year.

Marlon Wayans delivers a career-best performance as Isaiah White, a legendary quarterback whose charm masks a terrifying edge. Wayans is both magnetic and unnerving, crafting a character who embodies the seductive promise of greatness and the destructive cost that comes with it. His dynamic with rising star Tyriq Withers, who plays young quarterback Cameron Cade, gives the film its emotional core—one that’s as much about mentorship as it is about manipulation. Julia Fox, meanwhile, steals every scene she’s in as Isaiah’s enigmatic wife, bringing an unexpected sharpness to the mix.

Visually, HIM is cryptic and captivating. Every frame pulses with tension, with well-placed stylistic flourishes that reward a second watch. The film also isn’t afraid to get surreal, weaving in bold metaphors about sports culture, masculinity, and the price of glory. At its best, it’s a giant, haunting metaphor for how we treat athletes as icons rather than humans.

Yes, the story can feel uneven. Its pacing falters, its themes sometimes tangle, and its explosive finale will no doubt divide audiences. But even when the narrative stumbles, the film’s audacity keeps you glued to the screen. It’s not just another horror movie—it’s an attempt to say something deeper about the physical and psychological toll of greatness.

HIM may fumble on its way to the end zone, but it’s a bold, stylish swing that lingers long after the credits roll. Anchored by Wayans’ intense performance and some unforgettable moments from Fox and Withers, this sports-horror experiment proves that even in its messiness, it’s a film worth experiencing—and talking about.

Audiences can judge for themselves, as HIM is NOW PLAYING only in theaters.