From Faust to Him: The Enduring Allure of the Devil’s Deal in Hollywood
LOS ANGELES – The concept of making a pact with the devil has captivated audiences for centuries, and its cinematic interpretations continue to thrive. The latest addition to this rich tapestry is “Him,” a horror film produced by Jordan Peele, which opens in theaters this Friday. This film explores the life of Cameron Cade, an aspiring professional football player who is drawn into a world of ambition and sacrifice at a secluded training compound run by the legendary quarterback Isaiah White. As Cade navigates this treacherous landscape, he is repeatedly confronted with the question: “What are you willing to sacrifice?”
The Metaphor of Selling Your Soul
Julia Fox, who portrays White’s wife in “Him,” offers a contemporary interpretation of the Faustian bargain. “People often think of selling your soul as a literal transaction,” she explains. “But it’s really about compromising your morals and values for success.” This perspective aligns with the broader theme of Faustian narratives, which often serve as cautionary tales about the costs of ambition and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in pursuit of their dreams.
A Rich Tradition of Faustian Tales
The allure of Faustian stories in cinema is not new. The legend of Faust, which dates back to the 16th century, has inspired countless adaptations across various media. From Christopher Marlowe’s “Doctor Faustus” to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s two-part play, the tale has evolved but consistently revolves around the central theme of a deal with the devil. In film, this trope has manifested in diverse genres, from horror to comedy.
For instance, the 2005 film “Constantine,” starring Keanu Reeves, presents a modern take on the Faustian myth, while Brendan Fraser‘s 2000 romantic comedy “Bedazzled” offers a lighter, yet equally poignant, exploration of the theme. The devil’s promises often range from wealth to fame, as seen in Jack Black’s musical comedy “Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny,” which humorously tackles the quest for rock stardom.
Kirsten Thompson, a film studies professor at Seattle University, notes, “Once you start looking, Faustian themes are everywhere. They tap into our desires for power, youth, and status.” This universality is what keeps the narrative fresh and relevant, allowing filmmakers to reinterpret the myth for contemporary audiences.
Sports and the Faustian Bargain
Interestingly, “Him” is not the first film to intertwine the Faustian narrative with the world of sports. The 1958 musical “Damn Yankees,” based on the Broadway show, tells the story of a baseball fan who makes a deal with the devil to help his team win. This intersection of sports and the Faustian bargain highlights the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their dreams, whether in athletics or other fields.
The thematic exploration of sacrifice and ambition resonates deeply in the world of sports, where athletes often face immense pressure to perform. Director Justin Tipping emphasizes this connection, stating, “Behind every athlete’s actions is the desire to stop time.” The quest for eternal youth and success is a driving force that mirrors the struggles faced by Faust himself.
The Legacy of Murnau’s Faust
While the 1926 silent film “Faust,” directed by F.W. Murnau, is not the earliest adaptation of the legend, it remains one of the most influential. Murnau’s film is celebrated for its striking visuals and innovative storytelling techniques, which have left a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape. According to Thompson, “The film’s iconic imagery has influenced countless filmmakers and remains a touchstone in the history of silent cinema.”
Robert Eggers, known for his work on “Nosferatu,” has cited Murnau’s “Faust” as a significant influence on his own filmmaking. The film’s exploration of despair, temptation, and redemption continues to resonate with contemporary audiences and filmmakers alike.
The Historical Context of the Faust Legend
The origins of the Faust legend can be traced back to various cultural and religious traditions. Joseph Laycock, a professor of religion at Texas State University, notes that the idea of making a deal with a supernatural being has roots in pre-Islamic Arabic traditions. However, the Western interpretation of this myth is heavily influenced by Christian theology.
The “Malleus Maleficarum,” a 15th-century text on demonology, provides insight into the concept of the Faustian bargain. It suggests that demons can gain power through pacts with humans, a notion that became particularly relevant during the Reformation, a time marked by witch hunts and exorcisms. This historical backdrop set the stage for the emergence of the Faust legend as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and the moral compromises that often accompany it.
Goethe’s Influence and Modern Adaptations
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s adaptation of the Faust story in the 19th century transformed it into a literary masterpiece that has influenced countless works across various genres. Thompson compares Goethe’s impact to that of Shakespeare, noting that canonical works of literature are frequently reinterpreted in film and other media. The enduring nature of the Faust legend speaks to its universal themes and the human condition.
In “Him,” Tipping cleverly incorporates modern sports slang into the title, referencing the phrase “I’m Him,” which signifies greatness among athletes. This contemporary twist adds another layer to the film’s exploration of ambition and identity, while also hinting at the darker implications of striving for greatness.
Conclusion
The fascination with Faustian deals in Hollywood is a testament to the timeless nature of the themes they explore. As “Him” prepares to hit theaters, it joins a long line of films that grapple with the moral complexities of ambition, sacrifice, and the human desire for power. Whether through horror, comedy, or drama, the devil’s deal remains a compelling narrative that continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting our own struggles and aspirations in an ever-evolving world.
