For our latest digital feature, we chat with Indira G. Wilson who plays Yvette in the sports horror film, HIM, from Oscar winner Jordan Peele and Monkeypaw Productions. Indira plays the mother of Cameron “Cad” Cade, played by Tyriq Withers, a rising-star quarterback who has devoted his life, and identity, to football.
HIM premiered in theaters on September 19 and also stars Marlon Wayans, Julia Fox, Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, and MMA heavyweight fighter Maurice Greene and hip hop phenoms Guapdad 4000 and Tierra Whack, all three in their feature film debuts.
On the eve of professional football’s annual scouting Combine, Cam is attacked by an unhinged fan and suffers a potentially career-ending brain trauma. Just when all seems lost, Cam receives a lifeline when his hero, Isaiah White, a legendary Championship quarterback, offers to train Cam at his isolated compound that he shares with his celebrity influencer wife, Elsie White. But as Cam’s training accelerates, Isaiah’s charisma begins to curdle into something darker, sending his protégé down a disorienting rabbit hole that may cost him more than he ever bargained for.
Exclusive photos for Popternative Magazine by James DePietro
PR: PR Machine
What was it like reading the script for HIM and then seeing everything come to life when you went into production?
Indira: The script for HIM was fast paced and really well done. The writers did an amazing job with the vivid imagery and storytelling in the script. But I could not have imagine what Justin the director and Kira the DP would do with it. The film has such a great style and attitude about it. And a lot of great artists put in hard work to bring the script to life. I was truly amazed.
How would you describe your character in the film, and what was it like playing this character?
Indira: Yvette is that quintessential sports Mom. She goes to every game and she has supported her son’s dream. But most importantly, she wants what’s best for her son. I think of Yvette as his greatest protector. I have two sons and I understood where she was coming from. It felt very natural to play her.
What was it like working with the cast for this film?
Indira: The cast and crew were a lot of fun. There’s always a contrast when you’re working on a scary or suspenseful project, the humor behind the scenes is always heightened. However, everyone took their roles very seriously.
What was it like getting to work on a horror film at a time where the genre is as popular as ever?
Indira: One of the best things about this film is that it took the genre to a new level. Like most films produced by Jordan Peele, it’s not your standard fare, which made working on this film stimulating as well as thought provoking.
What were some learning experiences you gained from an acting/storytelling perspective working on HIM?
Indira: This film reaffirmed the idea for me that there are so many stories to tell and that we as artists can explore them in whatever genre serves the story best.
HIM is available to rent or purchase on digital.
_
Follow Indira G. Wilson: Instagram
Follow Popternative Magazine: Instagram