Men in Black II (2002)
Where to Watch
- The original script for Men in Black II was written over a decade before production finally began in 2002.
- Barry Sonnenfeld originally wanted a completely different ending for the film, but test audiences preferred the one we see today.
- Eagle-eyed viewers have noticed a hidden easter egg referencing Barry Sonnenfeld's previous film in the background of the opening scene.
Men in Black II is a 2002 American science fiction action comedy directed by Barry Sonnenfeld. Will Smith returns as Agent J, who must restore the memory of his former partner Agent K, played by Tommy Lee Jones, after K had himself neuralized and returned to civilian life. A shapeshifting Kylothian alien named Serleena, played by Lara Flynn Boyle, has arrived on Earth seeking the Light of Zartha, a powerful energy source hidden on the planet by K decades ago.
With the MIB organization compromised and Serleena in control of headquarters, J and the re-neuralized K must rediscover the location of the Light before Serleena destroys the Earth. Men in Black II was widely considered a disappointment compared to the inventive original, with critics noting that the film recycled many of the same plot beats — K must be brought back into the fold, a destructive alien threatens Earth, the climax involves a deadline. The film's rushed production schedule, driven by Sony's desire to capitalize on the first film's success, was reflected in a screenplay that felt underdeveloped.
Despite these shortcomings, the chemistry between Smith and Jones remained reliably entertaining, and several creature designs — particularly the worm aliens' expanded role — provided memorable moments. Men in Black II earned $441 million worldwide on a $140 million budget.
