Review | They Cloned Tyrone - Future of the Force

“They Cloned Tyrone is a compelling ride blending sci-fi and absurd comedy. This is a weird film but a good kind of weird in which its trio shines with great chemistry.”

They Cloned Tyrone is Netflix’s latest scifi film. It releases this Friday and stars Jamie Foxx, John Boyega and Teyonah Parris.

STORY

(L to R) Teyonah Parris as Yo-Yo, Jamie Foxx (Producer) as Slick Charles and John Boyega as Fontaine in *They Cloned Tyrone*. Cr. Parrish Lewis/Netflix © 2023.

The film starts as a normal drama in a Black neighbourhood until Fontaine (John Boyega) the protagonist we follow gets shot and seems pretty dead. Except, the next morning he wakes up alive. “This is when the fun begins” as Anakin in Star Wars would say. With the help of the two witnesses of his death (Jamie Foxx and Teyonah Parris), Fontaine is on his way to discover what happened to him. This sends them on the trail of a shocking government conpiracy.

They Cloned Tyrone mixes a lot of genres together. You get the drama aspect at the beginning, it then turns into sci-fi with Fontaine being dead but not being dead. Add to that mystery with the characters trying to figure out what is going on. On top that, there is a big dash of absurdist humour and satire with the government conspiracy. This is definitely a weird film but a good kind of weird. You are in for a compelling ride. It’s a lot of fun. In fact, it does remind of the Coen brothers films in many ways – silly characters who have to investigate a mystery for which they are definitely not qualified for and that mystery turns out to be just as absurd. Pop culture fans, pay attention because it’s filled with references. Moreover, this film uses this mix of genres to make a social commentary on America. It’s smart and witty.

CAST

(L to R) Teyonah Parris as Yo-Yo, Jamie Foxx as Slick Charles and John Boyega as Fontaine in *They Cloned Tyrone*. Cr. Parrish Lewis/Netflix © 2023.

This is John Boyega’s film. He delivers a powerful and emotional performance. It’s good to see him back in films front and center. He is a talented actor who deserves a lot of praises. In addition, Jamie Foxx and Teyonah Parris are equally amazing and funny. This is a great cast that shines as a trio thanks to their on-screen chemistry.

VISUALS AND SOUNDTRACK

(L-R) Jamie Foxx (Producer) as Slick Charles, Teyonah Parris as Yo-Yo and John Boyega as Fontaine in *They Cloned Tyrone*. Cr. Parrish Lewis/Netflix © 2023.

Furthermore, the cinematography in They Cloned Tyrone is an absolute delight! The cinematographer Ken Seng has done a fantastic work. This film has the potential to get an Oscar nomination. It takes inspiration from the 70s films. Indeed, you get this grainy image and a warm tone. But, it is at its best during the night scenes. It’s dark but the lights and neons bring a special flavor to these scenes. Honestly, it’s a pleasure for the eyes to watch this film. The costumes are also following the same vibes with a beautiful color palette. Finally, Desmond Murray and Pierre Charles deliver a funky and upbeat score that perfectly match the 70s inspired visuals of the film.

VERDICT

They Cloned Tyrone is a compelling ride blending sci-fi and absurd comedy. This is a weird film but a good kind of weird in which its trio shines with great chemistry. On top of that, the 70s inspired cinematography makes it an absolute joy to watch.