Reality TV is on the rise.
Post WGA/SAG strike, more studios and productions are investing in reality television. Reality television is cheaper to make than scripted television, and consistently popular with audiences ready to tune in for drama, even as today, unscripted TV is struggling along with the rest of the entertainment industry. While reality TV has remained a popular avenue of entertainment, viewers are seldom aware of the real-life exploitation behind the scenes. Former contestants of reality shows have reported multiple examples of harassment and abuse, both to reinforce a power dynamic between the production and candidates, and to build fodder for the show. Director Rebecca Wahls and writer/actress Tess Higgins heavily discuss how this abuse is tied into the fabric of reality television in their new film Him.
Him follows the contestants of a Bachelor/Love is Blind-like reality show, and their revelations of how they were manipulated by the producers of the show. I had the opportunity to talk with Wahls and Higgins, and they discussed how their film showcased the anxiety, infighting, and emotional pressure producers inflict on reality TV contestants. Everything from isolation, aggressive monitoring, stoking conflict between the contestants, and prodding emotional insecurities are inflicted on the contestants to make “marrying the guy” the only goal on their minds. Him slyly explores the nuances and impact of reality TV manipulation, aided by strong performances from the lead actress, especially Kira Omans and Tess Higgins. Him is a crafty, earnest, and intense takedown of reality TV abuse.
Him is now playing on Apple+, Prime, and all major VOD platforms. Him was also produced by the UCAN Foundation, a non-profit providing mental health and legal support to past, current, and future unscripted cast members.
