The phrase "I'm HIM" exploded onto the sports scene, and now it's the title of a chilling new sports-horror thriller. 'HIM,' produced by Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions and directed by Justin Tipping, uses the high-stakes world of college football to explore themes of ambition, obsession, and the dark side of mentorship. The film stars Marlon Wayans as the legendary quarterback, Isaiah White, and features Tyriq Withers as his protégé, Cameron Cade. But this isn't your typical sports movie; 'HIM' delves into the psychological toll of relentless pursuit of greatness.
Director Justin Tipping, himself a former athlete, masterfully blends the visceral excitement of sports with the chilling suspense of horror. He sought to create a film that transcended genre conventions, offering a deeper exploration of the sacrifices athletes make in their quest for success. This authenticity extended to casting Withers, a former Florida State Seminole walk-on, in the lead role. Tipping knew that capturing the physicality and mental resilience of a top-tier athlete required someone who understood the game from the inside.
Withers' journey mirrors the challenges and triumphs of his character. Initially a competitive soccer player, he switched to football in high school, eventually earning a spot on the Florida State team. His experience as a walk-on, constantly striving to prove himself alongside future NFL stars like Dalvin Cook and Derwin James Jr., provided a deep well of authentic experience for his role.
However, playing a convincing quarterback on screen presented a unique challenge for Withers, a former wide receiver. To achieve the required level of realism, he enlisted the help of Jordan Palmer, a former NFL quarterback and renowned quarterback coach. Palmer's rigorous training regimen, which included immersing Withers in the world of NFL hopefuls, transformed the actor into a credible on-screen signal-caller.
Palmer's coaching drew inspiration from the athleticism and charisma of Caleb Williams, providing a framework for Cade's on-field presence. Meanwhile, Tipping's inspiration for the character of Isaiah White, Cade's mentor, came from the legendary work ethic and unwavering dedication of sports icons like Tom Brady and Kobe Bryant. This blending of real-world inspiration and creative vision resulted in a compelling and nuanced portrayal of the complex relationship between mentor and mentee.
'HIM' doesn't shy away from examining the unique pressures faced by Black quarterbacks in the NFL. The film explores the expectation to be not just good, but exceptional, to even be considered. This adds a layer of depth to Cade's story, making him a far more relatable and human character than a simple sports archetype.
Ultimately, 'HIM' is a thought-provoking exploration of ambition and sacrifice, challenging viewers to consider the true cost of greatness. The film leaves a lasting impression, prompting viewers to question how they define success and the choices they make in pursuit of their goals. It's a powerful message that resonates with athletes and non-athletes alike, underscoring the enduring power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining personal integrity amidst the pressures of achieving one's dreams.
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Originally published at: https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/46282896/tyriq-withers-florida-state-seminoles-walk-cameron-cade-movie-jordan-peele-justin-tipping
