What went wrong with F. Gary Gray’s attempt to revive a franchise with MEN IN BLACK: INTERNATIONAL?

There are many answers to that question, which we dig into this week, but a lot of the DOA sequel’s problems can be traced directly back to the successes of 1997’s MEN IN BLACK. We look at the newest MEN IN BLACK alongside its much funnier, more sprightly forebear to see how the two films’ respective use of humor, movie stars, and setting contribute to their success, or lack thereof. Plus, Your Next Picture Show, where we share recent filmgoing experiences in hopes of putting something new on your cinematic radar.

Please share your comments, thoughts, and questions about any and all MENS IN BLACK, or anything else in the world of film, by sending an email to [email protected], or leaving a short voicemail at (773) 234-9730.

SHOW NOTES

Works Cited:

• “Rewrites, Infighting and No ‘Urgency’: Behind Sony’s Lackluster ‘Men in Black’ Relaunch,” by Borys Kit (The Hollywood Reporter)

• “‘Men In Black: International’ and the Zombie Franchises That Won’t Die,” by Tim Grierson

Your Next Picture Show: 

• Tasha: John Dahl’s THE LAST SEDUCTION

• Keith: Steven Knight’s SERENITY

• Genevieve: HOMECOMING: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ

• Scott: The CHILD’S PLAY franchise, particularly BRIDE OF CHUCKY and SEED OF CHUCKY

Outro music: Danny Elfman & Chris Bacon, “Red Button”

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