Jordan Peele‘s Monkeypaw Productions Unveils Groundbreaking Horror Film “Him“
Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions has carved a niche in the horror genre, known for its innovative storytelling and striking visuals. The studio has produced a series of critically acclaimed films over the past decade, including Peele’s own “Us” and “Nope,” as well as Nia DaCosta’s “Candyman.” Their latest project, “Him,” directed by Justin Tipping, pushes the boundaries of horror by intertwining sports culture with psychological terror.
A Unique Blend of Sports and Horror
“Him” tells the story of Cameron Cade, a young football star portrayed by Tyriq Withers, who grapples with trauma and the pressures of success. The film’s narrative explores the dark side of ambition, as Cameron’s quest for greatness leads him to a nightmarish training regimen under the guidance of the enigmatic Isaiah White, played by Marlon Wayans. This unconventional training compound serves as a backdrop for Cameron’s descent into madness, blending the adrenaline of sports with the unsettling atmosphere characteristic of horror classics by directors like Stanley Kubrick and David Lynch.
Tipping’s vision for “Him” is ambitious, merging the frenetic energy of sports advertising with the eerie undertones of horror. The film’s aesthetic is designed to evoke a sense of unease, drawing viewers into Cameron’s psychological turmoil. The director’s approach is reminiscent of the way horror films have historically used familiar settings-like homes or schools-to create a sense of dread, but here, the football field becomes a site of existential horror.
Cinematic Language and Visual Storytelling
The film’s visual narrative is crafted by Kira Kelly, an Emmy-nominated cinematographer known for her work on Ava DuVernay’s documentary “13th.” Kelly’s collaboration with Tipping has resulted in a visually stunning film that stands alongside other notable works of 2025. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of sources, including Alejandro Jodorowsky’s “The Holy Mountain” and contemporary Nike commercials, Kelly has developed a unique cinematic language that captures Cameron’s mental and physical breakdown.
In an interview with IndieWire, Kelly explained the creative process behind the film’s visuals. “Early on, it was clear that Justin wanted to do something really different,” she said. “When we were shooting, there were scenes where I would look at him and be like, ‘Is this too much?’ And he would be like, ‘No, more.’ He really pushed us.” This collaborative spirit allowed for a visual exploration that immerses the audience in Cameron’s psyche.
The Descent into Madness
The film’s cinematography plays a crucial role in illustrating Cameron’s journey. Kelly and Tipping employed various techniques to depict the character’s descent into a psychological abyss. The lighting and production design evolve as Cameron spends more time at Isaiah’s compound, transitioning from bright, dynamic shots on the football field to darker, more oppressive compositions that reflect his deteriorating mental state.
“We really tried to play with the idea of levels,” Kelly noted. The visual language shifts from vibrant and energetic to static and claustrophobic, mirroring Cameron’s increasing sense of entrapment. The use of chiaroscuro lighting enhances the film’s unsettling atmosphere, creating a visual representation of Cameron’s internal struggle.
Innovative Technical Approaches
To achieve the film’s ambitious visual goals, Kelly and her team employed cutting-edge technology and inventive techniques. For instance, they created a specialized rig that allowed the camera to move at high speeds, capturing the intensity of football action in a way that feels visceral and immediate. This innovative approach is reminiscent of the techniques used in sports cinematography, yet it is infused with a horror sensibility that heightens the tension.
The crew also utilized a “boomerang” rig, which allowed the camera to follow the action in a dynamic manner. This level of technical ingenuity is indicative of the film’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional horror filmmaking. Kelly’s collaboration with lens technician Dan Sasaki resulted in customized lenses that enhanced the film’s visual storytelling, allowing for unique color flares and a distinct aesthetic.
Psychological Terror and Visual Effects
The film’s exploration of psychological terror is further amplified through its visual effects. Kelly and her team experimented with various techniques to depict Cameron’s traumatic experiences, including the use of thermal imaging to illustrate the impact of concussions. This innovative approach not only adds a layer of realism but also serves to immerse the audience in Cameron’s harrowing journey.
The film’s visual motifs, such as the recurring imagery of Cameron being hit and the impressionistic representation of his mental state, contribute to a sense of psychological horror that is both unique and unsettling. These visual elements are designed to evoke a visceral reaction from the audience, drawing them deeper into Cameron’s nightmarish reality.
Conclusion
“Him” represents a bold new direction for Monkeypaw Productions, combining the adrenaline of sports with the psychological depth of horror. With Justin Tipping at the helm and Kira Kelly’s innovative cinematography, the film promises to be a visually stunning exploration of ambition, trauma, and the darker aspects of human nature. Set to be released in theaters on September 19, 2025, “Him” is poised to make a significant impact in the horror genre, continuing Monkeypaw’s legacy of pushing creative boundaries. As audiences prepare for this unique cinematic experience, it is clear that “Him” will challenge perceptions of both sports and horror, inviting viewers to confront the complexities of ambition and the human psyche.
