There’s no denying that football is a beloved and cherished sport in America. From high school games to professional leagues, millions of Americans tune in every week to watch their favorite teams battle it out on the field. However, the recent film Him, directed by Justin Tipping, sheds light on the dark side of America’s obsession with football.
The movie portrays the story of a young football star named Derrick, who must navigate his way through a rough and violent world of high school football. As he strives to achieve success in the sport, he also faces the pressure of living up to the expectations of his coach, teammates, and community. The film brilliantly captures the toxic masculinity, homophobia, and racism that are deeply ingrained in the culture of football.
One of the most crucial messages of Him is the dangerous effects of football on the players’ physical and mental health. Football is a brutal and physically demanding sport, and the film does not shy away from showing the gruesome injuries that players can sustain. The constant pressure to perform and win, as well as the fear of losing, can also take a toll on players’ mental health. The film highlights how this pressure can lead to self-destructive behaviors like drug abuse and aggression.
Moreover, Him also delves into the issue of homophobia in football. The sport has long been associated with hyper-masculinity, which has made it difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to be open about their sexuality. The movie portrays the struggles of a gay character named Mike, who must hide his true identity to fit in with his teammates. The toxic masculinity in football not only perpetuates homophobia but also creates a toxic environment for players who do not conform to traditional gender norms.
Furthermore, Him also addresses the issue of racism in football. The film portrays how players of color often face discrimination and are treated differently by coaches and teammates. This is a reflection of the systemic racism that exists in the sport and the society as a whole. By shedding light on this issue, the film encourages viewers to challenge these prejudices and promote diversity and inclusivity in sports.
It is commendable how Justin Tipping has used the medium of film to bring attention to the problematic aspects of American football. The movie not only exposes the dark side of the sport but also raises questions about society’s obsession with it. It highlights the need for a shift in the culture of football and sports in general, towards a more inclusive and healthier environment for players.
Him is a powerful wake-up call for Americans to re-evaluate their fixation on football. As a nation, we invest an enormous amount of time, money, and energy into this sport, often at the expense of other important issues. The film urges us to reflect on our priorities and the impact that our obsession with football has on individuals and society as a whole.
Furthermore, Him is a reminder of the responsibility that comes with being a fan of the sport. As viewers, we must not turn a blind eye to the issues portrayed in the film. Instead, we should use our voices to demand change and hold those in power accountable for creating a safe and inclusive environment in football.
In conclusion, there’s a lot wrong with Americans’ fixation on football, and Him works hard to get that message across. Through its powerful and thought-provoking storytelling, the film challenges us to confront the problematic aspects of the sport and work towards creating a better future for football players. It is a must-watch for all football fans, and it has the potential to spark important conversations and bring about positive change.
