Tyrel, directed by Sebastián Silva, is a tense drama centered around the titular character, played by Jason Mitchell. When Tyrel is invited along by his friend Johnny (Christopher Abbott) to a weekend getaway in the Catskills, he’s initially excited about the prospect of getting away from the city and relaxing in the wilderness. However, even before they arrive at the cabin, the sense of unease begins to set in. Johnny tells Tyrel that he’s the only black guy coming, although he assures him that the others at the party are “cool” and “not racist.”
Once they arrive at the cabin, the party starts to ramp up quickly. Most of the other guys are drinking heavily and getting rowdy, and Tyrel is left feeling increasingly out of place. He tries to join in with the conversation and the games, but there’s a sense that he’s not really being heard. When he tries to express his discomfort, Johnny tells him that he’s just being paranoid and that he needs to relax and have fun.
As the night wears on, Tyrel feels increasingly isolated and vulnerable. The other guys start to let their guards down, revealing their prejudices and insecurities. One of them, Pete (Caleb Landry Jones), is particularly antagonistic towards Tyrel, making racist jokes and trying to provoke him. Tyrel tries to keep his distance, but as the alcohol flows more freely and tensions rise, it becomes harder for him to keep a handle on the situation.
The film is a slow-burning study of racial tension and male aggression. Silva’s direction is understated, relying on the naturalistic performances of his cast to build the sense of unease and foreboding. Mitchell is excellent in the lead role, conveying Tyrel’s growing anxiety and powerlessness with subtle gestures and expressions. Abbott is also strong as the well-meaning but oblivious Johnny, and Jones is chilling as the provocateur Pete.
Overall, Tyrel is a gripping and unsettling drama that explores uncomfortable themes with nuance and sensitivity. It’s a challenging film, but a rewarding one for those willing to engage with it.