The Actor And Producer Says The True Test For The Jordan Peele–Produced Horror Film Co-Starring Tyriq Withers, Will Be How Audiences Respond. “Go See For Yourself.”
Marlon Wayans isn’t letting a low Rotten Tomatoes score define his latest film, HIM. The actor and producer took to social media over the weekend to say the real test will be how audiences respond.
“I respect critics. Their job is to critique. I respect their work. It shapes our industry. But an opinion does not always mean it’s everyone’s opinion,” Wayans wrote. “Some movies are ahead of the curve. Innovation is not always embraced and art is to be interpreted and it’s subjective. I’ve had a career of making classic movies that weren’t critically received and those movies went on to be CLASSICS. So don’t take anyone’s opinion just go see for yourself. Love to all. HIM in theaters now.”
Past Critic Reactions vs. Audience Love
Along with his statement, Wayans shared screenshots of critical scores for his past films. White Chicks (15%), Don’t Be a Menace in South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood (32%), and Scary Movie 2 (13%) were all dismissed by critics but ultimately found long-term popularity with fans. Wayans suggested HIM could follow the same path.
A Darker Role for Wayans
Wayans’ role in HIM marks a dramatic shift. Produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, the film casts him as Isaiah White, a decorated quarterback mentoring young football star Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) after his career is threatened by a violent attack. What begins as mentorship spirals into body horror inside Isaiah’s remote compound, where he lives with his influencer wife, Elsie (Julia Fox).
Tyriq Withers praised Wayans for pushing him to deliver his best work. “That preparation whipped me into shape like, ‘okay, I have something to prove. I want to show up and I want to do a good job,’” Withers told theGrio. He likened the experience of working with Wayans to Cade’s storyline in the film.
Behind the Scenes of HIM
Directed by Justin Tipping (KICKS) and co-written with Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie, the film blends sports drama with psychological horror. The cast also features Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Maurice Greene, Guapdad 4000, and Tierra Whack.
HIM is officially open in theaters.
