A Childhood Obsession: ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ and the Power of the Underdog

The artist first publicly detailed his love for cinema in a recent appearance on the A24 and Letterboxd collaborative series, The List. He pinpointed Napoleon Dynamite (2004) as a particular favorite, a film that resonated deeply with him from a young age. “I thought all the characters were perfect. I love the coloring. I love the tone,” he explained. The connection wasn’t merely aesthetic; it was deeply personal. He recalled receiving the film on DVD from his mother and watching it repeatedly on his sister’s Hello Kitty television.

This early exposure sparked a lifelong fascination. He even sported a “Vote for Pedro” t-shirt, a testament to his enthusiastic fandom. Beyond the film’s comedic brilliance, the soundtrack also held a special place in his heart. “Jamiroquai is one of my favorite bands since I was, like, nine years old, so ‘Canned Heat’ being played in it was incredible,” he shared.

The intensity of his admiration is legendary among his inner circle. DJ Jasper Dolphin, Okonma’s longtime collaborator, recounted a particularly obsessive viewing session during a tour. “I watched that on tour in 2013 or 2015, seven times in a row. Jasper begged me to turn it the f#&@ off,” Okonma confessed with a laugh.

From Ping-Pong to the Big Screen: ‘Marty Supreme’ and Artistic Evolution

This appreciation for the unconventional and culturally resonant is arguably what drew Okonma to Marty Supreme. He plays Wally, a street-smart ping-pong enthusiast alongside the film’s protagonist, Marty Mauser, inspired by the real-life legend Marty Reisman. The project, helmed by director Josh Safdie, aligns with Okonma’s admiration for creative risk-taking. He committed to the role immediately following the release of his 2024 album, CHROMAKOPIA, demonstrating a dedication to expanding his artistic horizons.

But Napoleon Dynamite isn’t an isolated case. Okonma’s film preferences span decades and genres, revealing a discerning eye and a willingness to embrace diverse cinematic voices. What films consistently capture his attention, and what qualities does he seek in a compelling narrative?

A Diverse Filmography: Unpacking Tyler, The Creator’s Influences

Okonma’s eclectic list extends far beyond the 2000s, encompassing a wide range of titles. He praised Chris Robinson’s direction in ATL (2006), specifically highlighting the film’s innovative cinematography and its ability to capture a specific cultural moment. “The angle from Evan Ross in the car with the girl from outside is incredible… the scene of them in the car when Aaliyah plays is so romantic,” he noted, emphasizing the film’s resonance with his own upbringing.

He also holds a deep respect for films that authentically portray the Black experience, such as Waiting to Exhale (1995). “That DP knew how to shoot Black skin, bro. And one of the greatest soundtracks ever,” he stated, acknowledging the film’s groundbreaking visual style and musical contributions.

Here’s a comprehensive list of films that have captured Tyler, The Creator’s imagination:

• Looper — 2012
• Shutter Island — 2010
• Funny Games (US remake) — 2007
• Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins — 2008
• Running Scared — 2006
• Lucky Number Slevin — 2006
• ATL — 2006
• Mr. & Mrs. Smith — 2005
• Wedding Crashers — 2005
• Shrek 2 — 2004
• A Series of Unfortunate Events — 2004
• The Butterfly Effect — 2004
• Bad Boys II — 2003
• The Italian Job — 2003
• School of Rock — 2003
• Paid in Full — 2002
• Antwone Fisher — 2002
• Pootie Tang — 2001
• Ocean’s Eleven — 2001
• Y Tu Mamá También — 2001
• Scary Movie 2 — 2001
• Why Do Fools Fall in Love — 1998
• Rush Hour — 1998
• Good Burger — 1997
• Don’t Be a Menace… — 1996
• Set It Off — 1996
• Matilda — 1996
• Tales from the Hood — 1995
• Se7en — 1995
• The Inkwell — 1994
• Crooklyn — 1994
• The Wood — 1999
• Jungle Fever — 1991
• Little Monsters — 1989
• Cornbread, Earl and Me — 1975

Did You Know?:

Frequently Asked Questions About Tyler, The Creator’s Film Preferences