Tyrese’s ‘1992’: A Must-See Tale of Two Fathers
Tyrese’s “1992″ is the film that almost never happened, but turns out to be the must-see tale of two fathers that we, the urban ac community, didn’t even know we needed – until now.
When Tyrese Gibson, the multi-talented star we’ve come to adore, decided to take on the role of Mercer in “1992,” he wasn’t just stepping into another character. He was stepping back into history—a time fraught with tension, turmoil, and transformation. The new film, which hit theaters on August 30, dives deep into the heart of the L.A. riots, bringing both intensity and introspection to a pivotal moment in American history.
The film, which also stars the late Ray Liotta, isn’t just another riot film; it’s a gripping narrative that connects the lives of two fathers. Tyrese, playing the role of Mercer, is a man on a mission to rebuild his life and forge a meaningful relationship with his son amidst the chaos. Liotta stars as another father who, along with his son, plans a dangerous heist at Mercer’s place of work. The film masterfully interweaves their stories, exploring the tension and eventual collision of their worlds against the backdrop of the Rodney King verdict that sparked chaos in the city.
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The film, described on IG as “the heist of the decade,” almost never happened. The ‘Baby Boy’ actor revealed the multitude of rejections he received when pitching the film.
“Nobody in Hollywood wanted to make this movie,” Gibson recalled at the film’s premier according to Black America Web. “No studio in Hollywood was willing to make this movie because of that realization that growing up in this Black skin is a f–ked up reality, some studios couldn’t accept it. So it was made independent. I couldn’t accept that. Ray Liotta left us with his last piece of art in this film. That’s like doing a movie with Paul Walker and they trying to go straight to DVD with it. I’m not doing that, bro.”
Luckily, Snoop Dogg, who much like Tyrese, lived through the tumultuous times depicted in the movie, adding layers of authenticity and personal significance to the project, agreed to executive produce the film while Lionsgate signed on for distribution.
“1992” opened in 875 theaters on August 30, 2024 and grossed over $1M on its opening weekend, a significant achievement given its limited marketing and promotional support.
Yes, it’s a reminder of a time that shaped the lives of not just the African American community, but the country as a whole. But, it’s also a testament to families, more specifically – fathers. It’s BOLD! It’s reflective. And, it’s a must-see!
So, if you haven’t yet, make sure to catch Tyrese’s heartfelt performance in “1992.” It’s a journey worth taking.
