Two of horror’s most visionary genre filmmakers, Eli Roth best known for his work in Hostel and Thanksgiving, and Jordan Peele of Get Out, Us, and Nope, are gearing up to unleash terrifying new projects. Whether you’re a fan of the relentless brutality of Roth’s films or the socially charged psychological horror of Peele’s work, 2025 is shaping up to be a golden year for horror fans.
Horror Heavyweights Unite
With that being said, the world of horror is about to collide with professional sports in Him, the highly anticipated new film produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions. Scheduled for release on September 19th, 2025, Him promises to be a chilling exploration of fame, ambition, and the sinister forces that lurk behind greatness.
Directed by Justin Tipping, known for Kicks and episodes of The Chi, the film is penned by Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie, whose original concept for the story made noise in 2022 when it landed on The Black List of best unproduced scripts. Initially titled Goat, the project was developed under Monkeypaw Productions after the company acquired the pitch. With Universal Pictures backing the film, Him is set to be one of the most talked-about horror films of the year.
A Story of Power, Fame, and Fear
At the heart of Him is Benny Mathis, an up-and-coming athlete who receives an invitation to train at the secluded compound of Connor Dane, a legendary quarterback on the brink of retirement. What begins as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity quickly spirals into something far more sinister. As Benny immerses himself in this isolated environment, he embarks on a blood-chilling journey that explores the dark side of fame, power, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With a storyline that intertwines psychological horror with the intensity of professional sports, Him aims to exceed expectations and push the genre into new territory.
A Stellar Cast Arrives in a Bold New Setting
The film features an impressive cast that blends dramatic heavyweights, comedic veterans, and rising stars. Marlon Wayans takes on a rare dramatic role as Connor Dane, the seasoned athlete harboring a dark secret. Tyriq Withers stars as Benny Mathis, the ambitious young talent stepping into dangerous territory. Julia Fox joins the cast in a mysterious role, while Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Guapdad 4000, and Tierra Whack add further intrigue to the film’s lineup.
The Evolution of Him
Since its inception, Him has undergone an interesting creative journey. Originally developed under the title Goat, the screenplay was crafted around the concept of a “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) athlete whose success is rooted in something far darker than talent or hard work. The film’s title change in May 2024 signaled a shift toward a more ominous and psychological narrative. With principal photography completed by November 2024, the production is now gearing up for its theatrical release.
A Production Backed by Visionaries
Produced by Jordan Peele, Win Rosenfeld, Ian Cooper, and Jamal Watson, Him is in capable hands. Peele’s track record of blending social commentary with horror in films like Get Out, Us, and Nope has elevated the genre in recent years, and Him appears to follow in that tradition. While the film’s exact budget has not been disclosed, Universal Pictures and Monkeypaw Productions have ensured that it balances financial efficiency with high production values, promising a visually striking and thematically rich experience.
Anticipation and Expectations
The collaboration between Tipping and Peele has already generated significant buzz, with many excited to see how Peele’s signature storytelling style influences a sports-driven horror film. Additionally, Wayans’ transformation into a dramatic lead adds another layer of intrigue, marking a departure from his comedic roots. Nonetheless, as the release date approaches, Him stands as one of the most anticipated films of 2025. In doing so, it offers a unique cinematic experience that blends psychological terror with the brutal reality of professional sports.
With its thought-provoking premise, powerhouse cast, and the creative force of Jordan Peele behind it, Him is gearing up to leave audiences questioning just how far one would go to be the greatest.
