A welcome surprise during a rather lackluster summer of original streaming films, "They Cloned Tyrone" is a bright spark with originality and wit. This film shot over two years ago and quietly moved to Netflix with minimal attention, serves as yet another example of how streaming giants can sometimes overlook hidden treasures within their expansive libraries. It's crucial that audiences search through the sea of algorithms and discover this cinematic gem.
Some will inevitably draw connections to cultural touchstones like "Get Out," "Sorry to Bother You," and classic Blaxploitation films. These genres and themes co-writer and director Juel Taylor, seems to hold in high regard. However, this film shines in its own unique light. This fresh debut manages to intricately interweave a myriad of cinematic references. They range from the science fiction of "Hollow Man" to the gritty action of "Foxy Brown." The movie's key strength lies in the dynamic performances of its lead trio, which add a timeless charm to the film. Although the ending might seem a little underwhelming, this might be because of the compelling narrative that precedes it.
John Boyega stars as the protagonist, Fontaine, an average man residing in an everyday neighborhood, The Glen. At first glance, Fontaine's character might seem stereotypical. He is a stern drug dealer wrestling with moral decisions, influenced by his estranged mother's voice from behind a door and the haunting memory of his deceased brother. But this film steps out of the typical narrative boundaries we've grown accustomed to.
A compelling and beautifully shot prologue that positions The Glen as more than just a backdrop but a character itself. Fontaine is shockingly shot and killed, only to awaken the next day unharmed as if the event never occurred. Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx), the pimp who was his target, and Charles' employee Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris), a witness to the shooting, are in shock by his return. Yo-Yo, senses an intriguing mystery reminiscent of her beloved Nancy Drew stories. She instigates an investigation that exposes a reality that borders on the fantastical and impossible. In a unique twist on the Blaxploitation genre, "They Cloned Tyrone" reveals a hidden force that's been manipulating people's lives.
The screenplay, penned by Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier and once featured on the prestigious Black List offers ingenious and humorous elements. However, without the compelling performances by Boyega, Parris, and Foxx, the film wouldn't have the same impact. Each actor brings a distinctive tempo to the film. This results in a captivating chemistry among the trio as they uncover a broad and elaborate conspiracy. Some of the film's most unforgettable moments are due to the synergy and interplay between Boyega, Foxx, and Parris.
As "Tyrone" slowly uncovers its hidden truth in an exposition scene featuring Kiefer Sutherland as a chilling villain, the film seems to scramble to tie up its narrative threads. The final act feels rushed and slightly underwhelming compared to the riveting hour that came before. Additionally, the film seems to skim over some underlying themes. For example. the concept of community and the roles that individuals are often constrained to play within it.
Yet, despite the ambitious nature of its ideas, "They Cloned Tyrone" retains its strength. This can largely be credited to the compelling ensemble and Taylor's fresh and promising directorial vision. Taylor successfully infuses the film with references to iconic cinema. It happens in a way that feels revitalized and fresh. This marks a promising start to his directorial career - one that won't merely mirror the work of others but might well inspire future generations of filmmakers.
