HIM
Getting Into Character

A Conversation with Scott Dropkin, SOC​
Hosted by David Daut

What does it cost to be the greatest? That’s the question at the heart of HIM, the twisty new sports-horror film that dives into the dark heart of ruthless ambition and the parallels between America’s fascination with sports and religious practices.

To get inside the psyche of Cam, the young pro-football hopeful at the center of this story, the film employs a striking and unique visual style filled with POV, tight close-ups, and moments of surrealistic nightmare imagery. Camera Operator got to speak with A camera and Steadicam operator Scott Dropkin, SOC, about what went into capturing this subjective style as well as some of the unconventional tricks they used to shoot it.

For as long as he can remember, Cam has wanted to be the G.O.A.T.—the greatest of all time—watching football players put their bodies on the line for a fleeting moment of glory. On the cusp of getting his shot at the big leagues an injury takes him out of commission, threatening to undo everything he’s worked for. Fortunately, an invitation comes from Isaiah White, Cam’s idol, to train under him at White’s remote compound. Once there, Cam finds himself confronting the true cost of greatness. HIM is directed by Justin Tipping from a screenplay by Tipping, Skip Bronkie, and Zack Akers and stars Marlon Wayans, Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox, and Tim Heidecker.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES

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Scott Dropkin, SOC

Scott Dropkin, SOC, grew up in Claremont, California. He was raised in a classical musical family. Son of two professional musicians—his mother a harpist and father a tuba playe—he learned to appreciate owning and practicing an instrument to make a living. With that and his love of films, when he discovered Steadicam, it was a perfect fit. After studying at Cal State Northridge, his career began with assisting on aerial units before going out with Doggicam equipment. He moved to, and has been, a Steadicam/camera operator for over 15 years. Scott is married to his wonderful wife, Valeria, and has three amazing children, Mason, Brielle, and Lexie. Scott is the 2025 recipient of the Society of Camera Operator’s, Camera Operator of the Year —Television, for his work on Yellowstone.  His additional credits include Animal Kingdom; Lawman: Bass Reeves; and The Chi. 

A writer and critic for more than a decade, David Daut specializes in analysis of genre cinema and immersive media. In addition to his work for Camera Operator and other publications, David is also the co-creator of Hollow Medium, a “recovered audio” ghost story podcast. David studied at the USC School of Cinematic Arts and works as a freelance writer based out of Long Beach, California.

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