In the midst of a conspiracy theory-riddled America, “They Cloned Tyrone” emerges as a slow-burn inner-city sci-fi nightmare thriller, delving into the enigmatic world of secrets and hidden truths. Directed by Jule Taylor, in his feature debut, the film takes inspiration from the justified prevalence of conspiracy theories within Black culture, touching upon historical events like the Tuskegee experiment and the controversial CIA involvement in the crack epidemic of the 1970s.
The story revolves around three captivating characters living on the fringes of society: Fontaine (John Boyega), a stoic drug dealer; Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx), a flamboyant pimp; and Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris), a fierce sex worker. Set in the district called The Glen, the film immerses viewers in the daily struggles and routines of these individuals, showcasing a visually impressive mood of funky gloom.
As the plot unfolds, the movie’s title, a reference to Erykah Badu’s track “Tyrone,” hints at a deeper, more surreal reality. A lethal confrontation leads to a character’s apparent demise, only for him to reappear unharmed later. Strange occurrences escalate, and the characters stumble upon a hidden laboratory with a peculiar white powder that doesn’t resemble cocaine. To their surprise, they find a white scientist conducting enigmatic experiments and a fried-chicken joint whose fare has an inexplicably intoxicating effect on everyone.
As the trio peels back the layers of the conspiracy, they realize that everything in their lives is intertwined with this mysterious plot. Clones, illusion, and a clandestine network of powerful white figures come to light, shattering their perception of reality. “They Cloned Tyrone” embraces elements from “Get Out,” “The Truman Show,” and the “John Wick” series, concocting a cosmic paranoia that promises to enthrall audiences.
However, despite the film’s promising premise, it falls short in execution. The grandiose conspiracy feels half-baked and lacks the impact needed for a gripping thriller. Nevertheless, Jule Taylor’s direction showcases craftsmanship and audacity, paving the way for future projects that may strike a perfect balance between conspiracy and reality.
In conclusion, “They Cloned Tyrone” promises an enthralling journey into a nightmarish world of hidden truths and conspiracies, fueled by exceptional performances and captivating visuals. While it may stumble in delivering its full potential, it establishes Jule Taylor as a promising director with the courage to explore thrilling and mind-bending narratives.
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