*Marlon Wayans criticized anime culture following a disappointing box office performance for his new psychological horror film, “Him,” produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions.
The movie, directed by Justin Tipping, earned $13.5 million domestically and $13.86 million globally during its opening weekend, Complex reports. With a $27 million budget, the film fell short of its $15 million projection, landing at number two. Meanwhile, the anime powerhouse “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” dominated with a $70 million worldwide debut.
@editbybigb Marlon wayans said fuck anime ???. All this is said on the shxt&gigs podcast. Demon slayer making the haters hate. #anime #HIM #wayans #comedian #fyp ♬ original sound – ???
The stark contrast between the two films sparked a candid reaction from Wayans during a press event. “Can I say it? F*** anime! We came at number two! Him first! F*** anime! I was up against it, HIM came out that same week against whatever it was… Demon Slayer! I want to wax your beard off your face!” he quipped, venting his frustration with a humorous edge.
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His co-star Tyriq Withers intervened, stating, “You can’t disrespect anime,” highlighting the genre’s loyal fanbase. “Him” tells the story of a young quarterback, played by Withers, whose promising career spirals under the dark mentorship of a veteran player, portrayed by Wayans.
“Him” received a C- CinemaScore and a 28 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting widespread disappointment. Wayans took to Instagram to defend his work, sharing scores for his earlier hits like “White Chicks” and the first two “Scary Movie” films, which also faced initial criticism but later gained cult status. “Just to be clear… I respect critics,” he wrote. “Their job is to Critique. I respect their work. It shapes our industry. But an opinion does not always mean it’s everyone’s opinion. Some movies are ahead of the curve. Innovation is not always embraced and art is to be interpreted and it’s subjective.”
Wayans remains optimistic about “Him” finding its audience over time. He emphasized his track record, noting, “I’ve had a career of making classic movies that weren’t critically received and those movies went on to be CLASSICS. So don’t take anyone’s opinion just go see for yourself. Love to all. Him in theaters now.”
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Marlon Wayans Defends New Horror Film Him After Harsh Reviews: ‘Art Is to Be Interpreted’
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