Marlon Wayans Takes a Dark Turn: ‘Him’ Promises to Haunt Audiences with Psychological-Sports Horror!

Known for his comedy chops and long-standing contributions to pop culture, Marlon Wayans is stepping into uncharted territory with “Him,” a psychological-sports horror film directed by Justin Tipping and produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions.

The movie is set to premiere on September 19, 2025, and has already sparked early buzz for its haunting concept and unexpected casting.

At its core, “Him” blends the high-pressure world of competitive football with an unsettling psychological thriller.

Wayans plays Isaiah White, a seasoned coach tasked with guiding a rising star athlete through the treacherous path of fame, performance, and personal demons.

But the story quickly shifts from a straightforward sports narrative into something far more sinister.

As Isaiah builds his bond with his protégé, eerie visions, unexplained events, and mounting paranoia begin to consume both men.

The line between mentorship and manipulation blurs, leaving audiences questioning whether the real horror lies within the supernatural—or the human psyche.

Director Justin Tipping, best known for “Kicks” and episodes of HBO’s “The Chi,” has described the film as “a chilling meditation on ambition, trust, and the price of greatness.”

This exploration of psychological tension mixed with the intensity of sports drama sets the stage for a unique cinematic experience.

Monkeypaw Productions, founded by Jordan Peele, has become synonymous with thought-provoking horror that reflects broader social themes.

From “Get Out” to “Us” and “Nope,” Peele’s team has redefined the genre for modern audiences.

With “Him,” Monkeypaw ventures into new ground, fusing the intensity of sports drama with atmospheric dread.

Insiders say the film echoes Peele’s signature style—sharp social commentary delivered through unsettling tension—while also allowing Tipping to put his unique creative stamp on the story.

According to Monkeypaw executives, the film will explore not only ambition and fear, but also the dynamics of mentorship in high-stakes sports.

“We wanted to capture the obsession behind competitive athletics, but also the psychological toll it takes,” one producer noted.

Perhaps the most surprising element of “Him” is Marlon Wayans’ casting.

Best known for broad comedies like “White Chicks,” “Don’t Be a Menace,” and the “Scary Movie” franchise, Wayans has built his career on laughter.

But in “Him,” audiences will see a different side of the actor.

Early previews describe his performance as “haunting,” with critics praising his ability to channel quiet intensity and vulnerability.

Wayans himself has spoken about his excitement in tackling a dramatic role:

“Comedy has been my home for years, but there’s always been a part of me that wanted to dive deeper.

Playing Isaiah White gave me that chance.

It’s a story about fear, mentorship, and confronting your own shadows—and I can’t wait for people to see it.”

The film’s trailers have been carefully cryptic, offering only glimpses of shadowy locker rooms, tense practice fields, and moments where reality appears to fracture.

Social media reactions to the teaser have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans expressing excitement not only for the story but for Wayans’ transformation.

On X, one fan wrote: “Never thought I’d be terrified watching Marlon Wayans as a football coach—but here we are.”

Another posted: “Jordan Peele producing? I’m in. Day one.”

Film analysts suggest that “Him” could be one of the most talked-about releases of the fall, appealing to fans of both sports dramas and psychological horror.

With Peele’s production pedigree and Tipping’s bold direction, expectations are high.

“Him” will officially premiere in theaters nationwide on September 19, 2025, with select screenings planned for major film festivals.

Industry insiders are already predicting strong box office interest, given the blend of star power, Monkeypaw’s reputation, and growing curiosity around Wayans’ performance.

For Wayans, the film marks not just a role but a reinvention.

As he recently told audiences during a Twitch appearance: “At 53, I’m still finding new ways to surprise myself.

This movie is one of them.”

If “Him” delivers on its eerie promise, it may not only cement Wayans’ dramatic credibility but also expand the boundaries of what psychological horror can look like in modern cinema.

With its unique blend of sports and psychological horror, “Him” stands poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences and redefine expectations for both the genre and its leading man.

As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the chance to witness Marlon Wayans take on this dark and thrilling new chapter in his illustrious career.