‘Had Nothing To Do With It’: Original Men in Black Director Reveals Men in Black: International Failed Because it Didn’t Have Will Smith
Since it made Will Smith a major international box office draw and showed how computer graphics would elevate Hollywood blockbusters for years to come, the action-comedy Men in Black is considered a classic in today’s age. In contrast, 25 years ago, the movie wasn’t necessarily a hit.
Sony had no idea what it had when it started working on the movie, which is based on a little-known Marvel comic book story and follows two operatives (Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith) from a covert agency that keeps an eye on aliens residing on Earth. The director, Barry Sonnenfeld, did not even have the two leads as his first choice. He had even walked away from the movie twice, before starting production.
Reasons were given by the original director of Men In Black on why MIB: International failed
He also had a hand in the latest film in the franchise as he executive produced MIB: International. For the movie’s 25th anniversary, Insider spoke to Barry Sonnenfeld over the phone from his home in British Columbia.
“The thing that’s funny is “Men in Black: International” is directed by F. Gary Gray who also directed “Be Cool,” the sequel to “Get Shorty.” Anyway, I think the “Men in Black” franchise, at least the first three, has a certain tone: this is all real and the comedy comes out of absurd reality. The laughs didn’t come out of jokes or acknowledging that something you did or said is a joke. Also, you need two different kinds of performers. You really do need a straight man and a comedian. You need Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin.”
“Now, I didn’t see “Men in Black: International,” but I’ve seen the trailer and I didn’t think there was enough difference in attitude between the leads. Maybe I’m wrong, but I feel you don’t want two funny people in your movie, ever.“
Also Read: MiB International’s Twin Assassins Are the Film’s Best Aliens
Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones were cast with their personalities in mind
Even though the two leads were not the director’s first choice, the casting could not have worked out better. The chemistry was stated to be on and off the set of Men In Black for the duo.
“It’s funny, they really clicked both on- and off-camera. They really enjoyed each other. They both thought each other was funny. For me, personally, the very first time we shot with both of them together is that pawn-shop scene with Jack Jeebs (played by Tony Shalhoub) and they both were perfect.”
“Will ad-libbed that last line of, ‘Yeah, I’m gonna come back about those Rolexes.’ Right away I knew they would work out well.“
Also Read: 15 Humorous Men In Black Memes That Will Definitely Make You Laugh.
Potential Men In Black movie could be in the works only if Will Smith gets on board
Barry Sonnenfeld, when asked “If Will Smith ever called you and said, “I’m thinking of doing another one.” would that sway you to direct another “Men in Black”?” responded with “Sure“. With the way things are with the actor at the moment, this could go either way when it comes to being a successful film if it ever does happen. What are your thoughts on having a potential Men In Black film directed by Barry Sonnenfeld as a continuation to the classic trilogy?
Source: Insider
