VIP Screening of Tyrant 2: Like Father Like Son 2 Unites Chicago's Film and Music Scene

A Night of Celebration and Storytelling in Chicago

On a star-studded night in Chicago, the city’s most influential entertainment figures came together for the VIP screening of Tyrant: Like Father Like Son 2. This highly anticipated sequel to the 2024 film captivated audiences with its raw depiction of generational cycles and street legacy. The event was not just about a movie—it was a celebration of Chicago’s storytelling power and the importance of owning one's narrative.

The film, created by Bo Deal, has become a significant presence in both the Chicago rap scene and independent filmmaking. It continues the story of Smoke, a man who is released from a 10-year prison sentence only to find his son walking the same dangerous path he once took. The cast includes rap veterans like King Louie and breakout actors such as Keante D Smith, Reko OsoFunny, and Mel Roberson, making the night more than just a premiere—it was a tribute to the city's artistic talent.

From Rapper to Storyteller

Bo Deal, a Chicago native, first gained attention in the rap scene, working alongside artists like Waka Flocka Flame and being affiliated with Gucci Mane’s 1017 Brick Squad in the early 2010s. His journey from a former gang member to an influential storyteller has been marked by transformation and growth. In 2023, he earned a bachelor’s degree in urban community studies from Northeastern Illinois University, a moment that changed the trajectory of his life forever.

In recent years, Bo has transitioned into filmmaking, starting with Tyrant: Like Father Like Son in 2024 and now with its sequel. As a writer, director, producer, and lead actor, he has created a true passion project that reflects his deep connection to the city and its stories. At the screening, Bo hinted at a third installment already in development and teased collaborations with more local Chicago talent, blurring the lines between music, film, and community work.

A Night to Remember: The Power of Chicago on Full Display

Held at one of the city’s most respected indie venues, the VIP screening drew a mix of artists, actors, influencers, and local tastemakers. The event showcased a project rooted in authentic Chicago storytelling. Bo Deal addressed the crowd, reflecting on how the Tyrant series evolved from a film idea into a franchise with a distinct voice. “We’re not just making movies,” he said. “We’re showing the world what it means to grow up in this city, to survive it, and to change the cycle.”

Stars like Kevin Gill, Mel Roberson, and Keante D. Smith echoed these sentiments during their post-screening Q&A. Each cast member shared how the film’s themes hit close to home and how they hoped audiences—especially young men—would see themselves in the story.

The Plot: Like Father, Like Son—Or Can It Be Different?

Tyrant: Like Father Like Son 2 picks up where the first film left off. Smoke, played by Bo Deal himself, tries to reintegrate into society after a decade behind bars. Instead of peace, he discovers his teenage son has embraced the streets—mirroring the very lifestyle that tore their family apart.

The film unpacks deep themes of generational trauma, inherited behavior, and redemption, wrapped in a narrative familiar to many inner-city communities. The title, rooted in the well-known idiom “like father, like son,” serves not only as a plot driver but also as a cultural reflection. Can a man outrun his past? Can a son break free from his father’s shadow? These are the questions the movie dares to ask—and answer.

The Cast Speaks: Why This Story Matters

The post-screening discussion gave audiences a chance to hear directly from the main cast, each of whom brought powerful performances and real-life authenticity to the screen. Mel Roberson, a veteran of the Chicago theater scene, called the project “one of the most important works I’ve ever been a part of.” Keante D. Smith discussed the emotional weight behind portraying broken relationships and how they resonate in urban families. Newcomer 10kkobee plays the role of “lil smoke” in the sequel, bringing a fresh perspective to the role.

The cast emphasized that Tyrant 2 was not about glorifying the streets—it was about breaking the cycle and offering reflection through art.

From Mic to Movie: Hip-Hop Artists Dominating the Screen

Bo Deal’s movement behind Tyrant: Like Father Like Son 2 follows a growing tradition in hip-hop. Many artists have expanded their reach by stepping behind or in front of the camera. As the entertainment industry evolves, so do the ways rappers tell stories. For many, film has become an extension of their lyrical expression—a new canvas to paint stories of survival, community, and identity.

Pioneers like Ice Cube laid the foundation for this shift. After rising to fame with N.W.A., Cube made a seamless leap into acting with classics like Boyz n the Hood, Friday, and Barbershop. His ability to craft narratives that mix humor with hard truths set a new standard, especially for artists looking to expand beyond music.

Method Man has carved out his own acting lane in recent years with roles in The Wire, How High, and Power Book II: Ghost. His natural on-camera charisma and nuanced performances have earned him respect in Hollywood, proving that hip-hop artists can thrive in the film industry.

Expanding Chicago’s Media Culture

That same creative energy drives Chicago talents like Bo Deal and King Louie to invest in projects like Tyrant: Like Father Like Son 2. These artists aren’t just dabbling—they’re extending hip-hop’s influence into independent film, reshaping how stories about the streets, family, and redemption are told.

As hip-hop celebrates over 50 years of cultural influence, these artist-directors and rapper-actors are building a legacy that defies expectations. For Chicago’s rising filmmakers, they’re proving that the streets can birth storytellers just as powerful with a camera as they are with a mic.

Building a Legacy: Independent Film as Community Work

For many involved, Tyrant 2 is more than a movie—it’s a blueprint for empowerment. The film was shot across real Chicago neighborhoods and funded largely through local backers, avoiding the usual Hollywood filters that often dilute Black narratives.

In a city often stigmatized for crime and violence, this project flips the script by spotlighting resilience, introspection, and transformation.

What’s Next for the Tyrant Franchise?

Bo Deal confirmed that Tyrant isn’t done yet. With the success of the first two films, he’s exploring streaming deals, film festival entries, and even a limited series adaptation. “I’m not done telling this story,” he said. “There’s more healing, more questions, and more growth that needs to be shown.”

If the energy at this premiere is any indication, Chicago is fully behind him. Especially, as the world is starting to take notice.

Final Thoughts

The VIP screening of Tyrant: Like Father Like Son 2 was more than a film debut. It was a celebration of Chicago’s cultural pulse, a community rallying behind real stories and real people. From Bo Deal’s creative vision to standout performances, the night cemented Tyrant as one of Chicago’s most meaningful indie film efforts to date.

As the crowd poured into the afterparty buzzing with emotion, one thing was clear. This wasn’t just a movie—it was a movement.