What Parents Should Know
Teens will enjoy the high gross-out factor immensely, but if
your child is easily frightened (or scared of bugs), this is
definitely not appropriate material. The story doesn't really
hold together, but the inventive effects and sly sense of humor
carry the day.
Common Sense Media Review
You have to hand it to the filmmakers--there's never been a
movie quite like this before. The central premise is
straightforward enough: aliens have been living among us for
years, monitored and controlled by a secret government agency
that must keep the human population unaware.
What's so original about MEN IN BLACK is its unpredictable tone. Part comedy, part science-fiction parody, and part action film, the movie just keeps throwing elements into the pot. Teens will love the combination of irreverent humor, great chase sequences, and gross-out special effects.
One thirteen-year-old girl particularly enjoyed the over-the-top alien bad guys as they sauntered around the countryside wreaking mayhem. But she saved her heartiest laughs for Will Smith and his boyish charm. Of course, Smith's flippancy wouldn't play without Tommy Lee Jones's earnest straight-man act.
The movie is packed with fun moments: alien eyelids blinking sideways (you've got to see it), a talking pug, and supermarket tabloids proven correct. Everything you've ever read in the Star about aliens is true!
With a flimsy, meandering plot, the movie shows its comic book origins. But it's relatively short and doesn't overstay its welcome. If you like this movie's bizarre style and tone, check out Beetlejuice.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
