They Cloned Tyrone debuts on Netflix Friday, July 21
Netflix’s They Cloned Tyrone is an unexpected and amusing blend of genres. It successfully combines elements of campy exploitation, science-fiction mystery, satire, and comedy to create a unique and entertaining film. Despite its unconventional nature, the debut directorial effort of Juel Taylor, the screenwriter of Creed II, effectively balances its different themes.
The initial conflict introduces a pimp, a sex worker, and a drug dealer who stumble upon a secret underground lab after witnessing a murder. Although this scenario seems like the setup for a joke, the film takes it seriously. The characters are genuinely horrified by the discovery of a human-cloning operation and soon realize that a sinister force has been working among them. The uncertainty and distrust that follow are relatable, as are the struggles of the lower-to-middle-class citizens depicted in the film. The inclusion of a wild government-conspiracy plot, with its historical parallels, adds to the intriguing and grounded nature of They Cloned Tyrone.
Visually, They Cloned Tyrone is captivating. It takes place in Glen, a typical low-income area of the American South, although the specific time period is deliberately ambiguous. The characters’ clothing blends retro and modern styles, reflecting an alternative version of the 1970s. The presence of flip phones, landlines, references to President Obama, and a grainy filter reminiscent of old films creates a stylized aesthetic that immerses the audience in an otherworldly atmosphere, similar to the uneasiness evoked by films like It Follows.
This unique blend of elements is what makes They Cloned Tyrone so compelling. While it could have easily become a convoluted mess, Taylor’s transition from screenwriter to director is seamless. He and his collaborators, including long-time writing partner Tony Rettenmaier, demonstrate a strong command over their shared vision. The film pays homage to Blaxploitation while promoting positive messages and avoiding negative stereotypes.
The exceptional cast of They Cloned Tyrone is instrumental in its success. John Boyega delivers a convincing portrayal of the titular character, Tyrone Fontaine, a drug dealer who commands respect. Boyega expertly balances aggression, grief, and fleeting moments of happiness. Jamie Foxx brings amusement to the film with his performance as the flamboyant pimp Slick Charles, injecting comical observations to lighten the mood in the face of adversity. Teyonah Parris shines as the confident and capable sex worker Yo-Yo, stealing every scene she’s in with her wit and banter.
While They Cloned Tyrone has a clear message of positivity, its execution is not without flaws. The outrageous conspiracy and surreal events depicted in the film, although entertaining, may undermine the film’s commentary on systemic oppression in the real world. Instead of reaching the sophisticated satirical edge of films like Get Out, it leans closer to the over-the-top spoof of Black Dynamite.
Additionally, the ending of the film feels somewhat anticlimactic. Despite touching on themes of eugenics and respectability politics in a comically absurd manner, the resolution is rushed considering the gravity of the conspiracy at the film’s core. Nevertheless, They Cloned Tyrone remains an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.