Under the lens takes a deep look at films by focusing in on one or two particular areas of the picture that helped to define it for better or for worse. Spoilers will be included in this review.
Men in Black: International is a science fiction thriller director F. Gary Gray and stars Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson, with supporting roles for Emma Tompson, Liem Neeson, and Rebecca Ferguson. This spin-off story takes place in the same universe as the previous trilogy and sees a two duo face down an insidious enemy threatening the whole of the earth.
Under The Lens: Cast Chemistry and Story
Cast Chemistry: The cast for this motion picture is truly outstanding and it was the goal of the studio to attempt to recreate the magic that was the Hemsworth/Thompson magic that was seen in Thor 3. Alas the main issue with MIB:I, is that its cast is just downright boring, Chris Hemsworth looks like he is not enjoying himself at all, and the outstanding chemistry felt in Thor is sadly lacking in MIB:I. Which is a shame, the only moments that we get that are heartfelt are the flashback scenes of Hemsworth and his mentor/Partner as they saved the world once before. Tragically the cast seemed to sleepwalk through this picture which bogged down its very intriguing story.
Story: One of the strong aspects of this picture is the story, while not terribly original it is interesting, and unlike the previous installments has a mystery at its core, that is fun and leaves one peacing together the clues as it inches closer to the climax. I enjoyed this picture’s narrative almost as much as the third MIB film and found its conclusion was fun, exciting, and took the franchise in a slightly different direction than before. MIB:I was smart enough to not have the core mystery take over the plot, as we travel with the heroes and get into gunfights and meet many fun and weird aliens as the clues are pieced together.
Highlights
The final villain reveal is a good one, and also gives us a tragic moment as we see a relationship that was not what one person thought it was.
It was fun seeing the International “Desk” of the Men in Black.
The alien designs are creative and Kumail Nanjiani as Pawny was hilarious and heartwarming.
Something to think about
What is your favorite Men in Black Picture?
Conclusion
Overall Men In Black: International, is a fun motion picture, that sadly falls way short of its predecessors, while its story is superior its lead characters are boring and actor chemistry is poor. Thus despite good action, fun battles, and creative aliens the picture comes up short. That being said the film is worth seeing and its locations and story make for a fun ride, pop it in on a lazy weekend and enjoy this “B” movie for what it is, a good but not great time.