There is a thin line between conspiracy theories and actual reality, especially when it comes to the Black community. But history has shown that it’s not far fetch to suspect the government, or large organizations, from using its power to negatively impact society.
There were multiple government-backed programs such as The Tuskegee Experiment where Black people were untreated for Syphilis from 1932-1972. In terms of real estate, Blacks were left out of economic empowerment due to redlining, a practice where the federal government intentionally segregated America starting in 1933.
But what would happen if some of those same forms of mistreatment occurred today?
Enter, “They Cloned Tyrone,” a movie that takes a comedic approach to explore how certain things the are prevalent within the Black community are actually detrimental.
Wonderfully written/directed by Juel Taylor, the film stars John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris. Set in a small Southern town that holds the cultural aesthetics of Memphis, the protagonists are in the desperate career positions of being a drug dealer, pimp, and prostitute. Low-life career goals, but at times glorified in music and pop culture.
The trio uncovers an underground lab where an elaborate plan by a government-like agency seeks to destroy, and at the same time, pacify the Black community through its food, religious institutions, hair products, and music.
Poking fun at the insane Popeye’s Chicken sandwich craze that occurred in 2019, the trio discovers that the chicken batter in the laboratory causes insatiable laughter. A restaurant that sells the fried chicken features long lines and customers who are overly-excited to eat fried chicken.
Rap music, more specifically elements of Trap or Drill music, is also a part of the conspiracy. When played in nightclubs, the music causes its listeners to recreate the actions that are vocalized. Later in the film, the laboratory features two Black men in a padded cell who fight while listening to music.
The church also plays a role as its pastor, David Alan Grier, preaches complacency to its members. Perm, hair products and sugary drinks are also devices used to the detriment of Black people.
Although comedy in the film can soften the blows, the statements are profound. The over-indulging of fried chicken can lead to health issues such as diabetes which disproportionately affects the Black community. Hair straightening products have been linked to cancer. Some elements of Trap and Drill music have inspired negativity. And some church leaders have exploited its members for profit.
The cloning aspect in the film reveals an even deeper notion that we are not our true selves in this vicious cycle of destruction that occurs within our communities.
Several references to the cartoon “Spongebob Square Pants” serve as subtle hints to the diabolical plan. In “Spongebob Square Pants,” the characters live underwater in a place called “Bikini Bottom” which is inspired by Bikini Atoll, located in the Republic of Marshall Island.
Following World War II, Bikini Atoll was used by America as a site for testing and developing nuclear weapons from 1946-1958. America detonated 23 nuclear bombs in the area. The testing left the people of Bikini Atoll in horrific conditions as they were impacted by radiation and starvation.
The social experimental testing in “They Cloned Tyrone” would also impact the future of its citizens as well.
Overall, “They Cloned Tyrone” takes viewers on a fun ride in a thought-provoking manner that will be unpacked by viewers for years to comes.
About Post Author
A.R. Shaw serves as Executive Editor of Atlanta Daily World. His work has been featured in The Guardian, ABC News, NBC, BBC, CBC. He’s also the author of the book “Trap History: Atlanta Culture and the Global Impact of Trap Music.”
