Uncut Diamonds

Films are made for many reasons, and not all of those reasons will resonate with every viewer. One such film that has been heavily critiqued—and in some circles outright dismissed—is Monkeypaw Productions’ 2025 release “H.I.M.,” starring Marlon Wayans.

“H.I.M.” arrived with significant anticipation, largely because it carried Jordan Peele’s imprint. While the film was produced and released under Peele’s Monkeypaw banner, it was directed by Justin Tipping. Any project associated with Peele’s name tends to draw heightened attention, even when the creative vision is not directly his. Knowing his brand was attached, coupled with the genre space the film was said to occupy, was enough to pique my interest.

The wave of critical backlash nearly deterred me. Still, true to form, I watched it anyway—largely because I had already decided to do so before the noise began. There is value in standing by one’s decisions and forming opinions independent of consensus. In this case, that choice proved worthwhile.

Football as Institution, Football as Sacrifice

At its core, “H.I.M.” is a meditation on being the G.O.A.T. While that idea can be applied across industries, the film grounds itself specifically in athletics and, more pointedly, in American football—one of the most entrenched institutions in North American culture. Yet the film is far more than a story about ambition or success. It interrogates the sacrifices athletes make and exposes the insidious undercurrents that often accompany the pursuit of greatness. Thematically, it is dense and provocative, dismantling illusions many would rather leave intact. That alone makes it a film destined to divide audiences.

Structural Inspection

From a structural standpoint, Tipping demonstrates a clear understanding of narrative mechanics. There is a defined protagonist and unmistakable antagonistic forces. The conflict operates on multiple levels—man versus system, man versus man, man versus self, system versus system, and even man versus spirituality. The complexity is such that it borders on narrative density, which does not always sit well with audiences seeking straightforward entertainment. Still, the story beats are present and identifiable.

The film’s message is unmistakable. It is saturated with symbolism—powerful, intentional, and for some, uncomfortably overt. The dialogue is rich and unflinching, filled with lines that linger long after the scene ends. One especially striking moment notes that

“success is about more than talent and hard work; it’s about surviving the death of who you used to be.”

Another draws a daring parallel between football and ancient rites of passage into manhood, likening the gridiron to brutal tribal initiations where boys are broken down and reborn as kings—only here, “the boys aren’t dragged, they’re drafted, and the gods sit in skyboxes.”

These moments carry undeniable weight and invite serious contemplation.

When Provocation Becomes the Point

That said, the film is not without flaws. Its heavy reliance on metaphor will alienate some viewers, and much of the dialogue leaves little room for subtle discovery. The narrative arc softens toward the end, and while there is a minor twist, the resolution largely remains within expected bounds. The gore is frequent and visceral—arguably thematically justified, but potentially excessive. Additionally, the film’s pointed use of Christian symbolism and cult-like imagery tied to America’s pastime will undoubtedly unsettle many. Still, provocation often accompanies meaningful commentary, and boldness is sometimes necessary to make a statement.

An Uncomfortable Vision with Something to Say

Ultimately, “H.I.M.” is a compelling and challenging film. Its message is bitter but deeply rooted in truth. To dismiss it without engaging in broader discussion would be a missed opportunity. The creative vision behind the project is admirable, even when imperfect. This is very much a love-it-or-hate-it film. For viewers who are not immediately put off by the fusion of Christianity, darker religious undertones, and ideological inversion used to underscore its themes, “H.I.M.” may resonate powerfully.