Dalvin Cook Meets Caleb Williams: How Tyriq Withers Transformed Cameron Cade’s Journey

“HIM”: A Deep Dive into Ambition and Sacrifice in the World of Sports and Horror

Odell Beckham Jr. popularized the phrase “I’m Him” in 2019. Fast forward to today, and that saying is more than just a sports tagline; it’s at the heart of the film “HIM.” Directed by Justin Tipping and produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, this unique sports-horror thriller delves into ambition, obsession, and the darker sides of mentorship.

Marlon Wayans stars as Isaiah White, a fictional legendary quarterback, while Tyriq Withers plays his protégé, Cameron Cade. The film doesn’t just deliver suspense; it explores what can happen when the drive for greatness turns sinister. Tipping, a filmmaker with an athletic background, found inspiration in the collapse between sports and horror. He aims to ask profound questions about sacrifice and what we give up to succeed.

During an interview with ESPN, Tipping shared his dual background in sports and film. He believed that by blending the two, he could create something fresh. “Pulling from the language of sports movies and horror felt like a chance to create a new dialogue,” he said.

The Athletic Connection

Withers brings real football skills to his role, which was essential for authenticity. Tipping insisted that the portrayal of athleticism had to feel genuine, down to the smallest actions. “You can’t fake athletic authenticity,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of every detail.

Before he became an actor, Withers played soccer from childhood. He transitioned to football late in high school, eventually earning a spot as a walk-on at Florida State University. His journey wasn’t easy; he had to overcome challenges, including financial barriers, but community support helped him secure a scholarship. Tadarrayl Starke, a key figure at FSU’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement, aided him through this process and recognized Withers’ humble determination.

The Walk-On Experience

For Withers, being a walk-on was humbling. He went from a struggling high school player to competing with some of the best. “The discipline and resolve it takes to play at that level shaped me,” he reflected. His time at FSU allowed him to build relationships and learn from talented teammates, including notable NFL players.

Notably, his interactions with Dalvin Cook, the Seminoles’ all-time leading rusher, provided an influential example. Cook’s blend of talent and humility became a touchstone for Withers as he developed his character in “HIM.” Cook appreciated the connection, noting the bond formed through shared challenges.

Preparing for the Role

Transitioning from a wide receiver to a quarterback for this film was daunting for Withers. He realized that embodying Cade required more than just athletic skills; it demanded a complete transformation. This is where Jordan Palmer, a former NFL quarterback and renowned coach, stepped in. Palmer guided Withers for weeks, helping him grasp the nuances of being a quarterback.

Their focus wasn’t just on throwing but on building confidence and the right mindset. “With Tyriq, I had three goals: throw like a quarterback, move like a quarterback, and act like a quarterback,” Palmer explained. By the end of their training, Withers emerged as a credible quarterback, blending both his athletic and acting skills seamlessly.

Themes of Race and Greatness

The film also addresses the pressures faced by Black quarterbacks, which adds another layer of complexity. Tipping wanted to highlight the societal expectations that accompany such roles. The film’s narrative resonates with many athletes today who grapple with similar issues, aiming to portray authenticity in the portrayal of ambition and race.

His character’s journey underscores the notion that in striving for success, one must confront tough questions about identity and moral values. Tipping hopes that “HIM” ignites conversations about how we define greatness, asking viewers to reflect on the cost of chasing success.

Conclusion

Both Withers and Tipping see parallels between their stories. The challenges they faced in sports shaped their work ethic and desire for narrative depth in their art. Withers has a simple yet profound takeaway for athletes: “Never sacrifice your own moral values to reach that next level.”

“HIM” isn’t just another sports film; it’s a thought-provoking journey that melds horror and the pursuit of excellence, urging audiences to explore the true cost of ambition.

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