They Cloned Tyrone | Official Teaser | Netflix

The Woman King star also wanted to work with co-writer/director Juel Taylor. Having previously written Creed II and Space Jam: A New Legacy, Taylor brought a blend of comedy, mystery and horror to the movie.

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“I loved the concept,” Boyega said. “I already had heard about Juel Taylor’s mind from behind the scenes. There were rumors of this young director who had a new perspective on entertainment and a new perspective on storytelling.”

The Breaking actor was also fascinated by the originality of the project, which he says has “a new vibe entirely.” He was drawn to its unique voice.

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“I think it’s a new creative direction. There’s been a lot of talk right now about big studio projects and wanting more nuanced stories, going back to those dramas and comedies that we miss, especially during the heyday of Black cinema,” he said. “I think this is a cool representation of that, with really funny moments.”

There’s also a celebration of Blackness in They Cloned Tyrone, with representation evident both in front of and behind the camera. The actor calls the production “the number one best ever time” he’s had making a movie. He contributes a lot of that fun to Foxx. Boyega was inspired by how the Oscar-winner treated the cast, crew and fans who showed up to watch them work.

“He invited us all to his house, put us through his initiation process, which is basically just vibing, talking, getting to know each other,” Boyega said. “In Jamie we trust.”

They Cloned Tyrone premieres July 21 on Netflix.