Insights from CinemaCon: Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers Unveil Their Football-Themed Horror Film
At the recent CinemaCon, stars Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers took the stage to share captivating insights about their upcoming football-centric horror movie, Him. The duo engaged the audience with a playful exchange that highlighted their on-screen chemistry and character dynamics.
Wayans, known for his comedic timing, humorously assumed control by addressing Withers directly, saying, “Did I say it was time to talk, Withers? Drop down and give me 20.” This light-hearted banter set a lively tone for the discussion, drawing laughter from the audience.
Wayans went on to draw a humorous comparison between their horror film and classic 1990s sports dramas, suggesting that the movie is “kinda like Rudy.” Withers was quick to rebut this claim, asserting, “It’s nothing at all like Rudy.” He further elaborated, stating that the film delves into themes of psychological tension, describing it as “something that burrows under the skin.”
A first-look trailer, which has yet to be publicly released, features Wayans’ character prompting viewers to ponder, “What am I willing to sacrifice?” This chilling question hints at the film’s focus on trauma and the gritty reality of athletic competition.
Produced by Universal and backed by Jordan Peele, the horror film is slated for release on September 19, 2023. The cast includes notable talents like Julia Fox, Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Guapdad 4000, and Tierra Whack. The screenplay, crafted by Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie, previously earned a spot on the prestigious Black List, signaling its potential for a compelling narrative. Producers from Monkeypaw Productions include Peele himself, Ian Cooper, Win Rosenfeld, and Jamal Watson, reinforcing the film’s strong creative foundation.
In addition to Him, Peele is also set to direct an untitled feature for Universal, scheduled to premiere in theaters on October 23, 2026.
CinemaCon, an annual gathering for film exhibitors and Hollywood studios, took place this year from March 31 to April 3. This event, presented by Cinema United (formerly the National Association of Theatre Owners), serves as a platform for industry professionals to showcase upcoming film projects and innovations in cinema.