This smash-hit science-fiction comedy, based on a short-lived comic strip by Lowell Cunningham, has veteran secret agent “K” (Tommy Lee Jones) and new recruit “J” (Will Smith) as part of the top-secret Men in Black (MIB) agency.
Headed by the stern, authoritative Chief Zed (Rip Torn), MIB is responsible for regulating all extraterrestrial activity on Earth and keeping alien presence hidden from ordinary humans. Agents use a pen-like device called a “neuralyzer,” which flashes light to wipe the memories of civilian witnesses.
Under their jurisdiction, Earth serves as a neutral refuge for hidden alien immigrants.
While investigating an alien sighting, K and J become involved in the search for a missing galaxy to appease an interstellar force and avert the Earth’s destruction.
Linda Fiorentino costarred as Dr Laurel Weaver, a cynical New York deputy medical examiner who gets swept into the MIB’s investigations.
Great special effects, inventive alien designs from creature effects legend Rick Baker, and Smith and Jones’s hip, hilarious double act make director Barry Sonnenfeld’s Lethal Weapon-style buddy picture a fast-paced pleasure.
The massive success of the movie (it grossed roughly $589 million worldwide on a $90 million budget) launched a multi-decade franchise, including an animated television series, two direct sequels (Men in Black II and Men in Black 3), and a 2019 spin-off film (Men in Black: International).
TRIVIA
The sleek, all-black, wrap-around shades worn by every MIB agent were the Ray-Ban Predator 2 sunglasses. Following the film’s release, Ray-Ban saw a massive, unprecedented surge in sales, proving to be one of the most successful product placements in movie history.
K
Tommy Lee Jones J (James Edwards)
Will Smith Laurel
Linda Fiorentino Edgar
Vincent D’Onofrio Chief Zed
Rip Torn Jeebs
Tony Shalhoub Beatrice
Siobhan Fallon Gentle Rosenberg
Mike Nussbaum Jose
Sergio Calderon Arquillian
Carel Struycken INS Agent Janus
Fredric Lehne
Director
Barry Sonnenfeld
Video
You May Also Like
Day After, The (1983) The Day After, a dramatisation of the effects of a hypothetical nuclear attack on the United…
World Without End (1956) Four astronauts - Hugh Marlowe, Rod Taylor, Christopher Dark and Nelson Leigh - are returning from…
The massive success of the movie (it grossed roughly $589 million worldwide on a $90 million budget) launched a multi-decade franchise, including an animated television series, two direct sequels (Men in Black II and Men in Black 3), and a 2019 spin-off film (Men in Black: International).
