Men in Black Blu-ray Review
Score: 72
from 4 reviewers
Review Date:
"Men in Black" Blu-ray offers a stunning video transfer and superior audio, with excellent creature effects and a solid ensemble cast; a must-have upgrade for fans.
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Disc Release Date
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 75
Despite being over a decade old, "Men in Black" shines on Blu-ray with a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode and a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, exhibiting abundant detail, vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent clarity. Minor inconsistencies, such as occasional grain and slight edge enhancement, do little to detract from its overall stellar presentation.
Audio: 75
Men in Black’s Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track offers a well-balanced, dynamic soundstage with clear dialogue, excellent directionality, and impactful low frequencies, highlighted by Danny Elfman’s engaging score. Ambient and discrete effects enhance the viewing experience, though some find sustained ambiance slightly lacking.
Extra: 71
The 'Men in Black' Blu-ray extras provide an expansive, retro-enhanced experience using Java tech for high interactivity, offering engaging commentaries from Barry Sonnenfeld and Tommy Lee Jones, in-depth technical insights from Rick Baker and the ILM team, interactive games, extensive featurettes, storyboards, and more.
Movie: 69
"Men in Black" remains a nostalgic ride with its mix of hip humor, over-the-top characters, and groundbreaking CGI of its time. Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith's dynamic performances drive this energetic, cartoon-like sci-fi comedy, although some effects feel dated now. A quintessential '90s spectacle, engaging even if light on depth.
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Video: 75
Men in Black’s Blu-ray edition demonstrates an impressive high-definition transfer at 1080p utilizing the MPEG-4/AVC codec and framed in a theatrically correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The result is an overall sharp and clean presentation, with vibrant colors and notably deep blacks that expand the film’s dynamic range. High-definition treatment brings remarkable clarity to the film, making character and environmental nuances, like the textured skin and clothing details, vivid and lifelike. This upgrade is most evident in scenes like the Universal Pawn shop, where the myriad of items is meticulously detailed, enhancing visual engagement considerably.
However, the transfer does have minor imperfections. Grain and noise sporadically surface, particularly in certain stock footage scenes overlooking Manhattan and during a night shot of a similar angle. Whites sometimes appear overly bright, giving a slightly soft, digital look to the transfer. There are also brief instances of edge enhancement. Nevertheless, these issues do not significantly detract from the viewing experience. The more prominent colors and more natural flesh tones mark an improvement over the previous DVD release, echoing the technical advancement in this Blu-ray edition.
The Blu-ray video presentation balances contrast and brightness well, ensuring detail preservation within black and white elements. Exemplifying this are outdoor scenes where vivid, lifelike images shine with excellent clarity and definition, as showcased when Jay and Kay are seen taking soil samples outside Edgar's farmhouse or during Agent K’s interrogation of Frank the Pug. Despite a few shortcomings, such as minor grain and some unnatural skin tone renderings, this transfer remains a significant upgrade from any prior home video versions, making it a commendable effort by Sony and a treat for Blu-ray enthusiasts and fans alike.
Audio: 75
The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track for the Blu-ray release of "Men in Black" is a resounding success that greatly enhances the film's audio experience. The mix undeniably surpasses previous iterations, as evident from the very first scenes. The intricate fluttering of a dragonfly’s wings is discernible, suspended delicately over Danny Elfman’s dynamic score. This precision sets the tone for a rich auditory journey where nothing is lost in translation. Directionality is employed masterfully, with effects like cars racing through New York streets and the atomic ball incident at MiB headquarters providing immersive, three-dimensional sonic landscapes.
The soundtrack offers impeccable clarity and tonal balance, with dialogue coming through crisp and clear in the center channel. Bass response is robust and authoritative without overwhelming the mix, exemplified by visceral moments such as the spaceship crash landing on Edgar’s farm. Such scenes deliver a palpable chest punch while maintaining the integrity of discrete effects. Front and rear soundstage pans are seamlessly executed, mirroring the visual action flawlessly. Moreover, ambient sounds from bustling city streets and MiB headquarters chatter add depth to the soundscape without feeling intrusive.
Elfman’s score remains a vital element throughout, facilitated by the wide-open front stage that drives the narrative forward with energy and finesse. Although some might perceive slight tonal imbalances and occasional restraint in dynamics compared to contemporary soundtracks, these issues are minor and do not detract significantly from the overall experience. In moments of high-octane action, such as the firing of the Noisy Cricket or car chases, directionality is precise, and bass impact is substantial. While it may not achieve absolute sonic perfection, this Dolby TrueHD 5.1 remaster sets a new benchmark for this classic film, offering an engaging and powerful audio experience unrivaled by previous home video releases.
Extra: 71
The Blu-ray extras for "Men in Black" stand as a testament to its legacy, offering both nostalgic content and in-depth technical insights. The two commentary tracks provide a comprehensive behind-the-scenes view, with Director Barry Sonnenfeld and Tommy Lee Jones delivering a lively telestrator commentary, reminiscent of Mystery Science Theater 3000, which is both informative and entertaining. The technical commentary dives deeply into the film's special effects, featuring insights from Rick Baker and the ILM team. However, it's less engaging but still informative for CGI enthusiasts. The Java-based features, while innovative, suffer from dated interactivity. The trivia game, extended scenes, and various featurettes add substantial value, albeit with some repetition across contents. The visual effects deconstructions and character animation studies offer an excellent look into the film's production process.
Extras included in this disc:
- Enhanced Telestrator Interactive Commentary with Barry Sonnenfeld and Tommy Lee Jones: A lively commentary with on-screen illustrations.
- Technical Commentary: Detailed insights from Sonnenfeld, Rick Baker, and ILM.
- Intergalactic Pursuit - Multi Player Trivia Java Game: A timed trivia game for single or multi-player.
- Ask Frank the Pug!: Interactive game with random responses.
- Extended and Alternate Scenes: Includes five scenes with some unpolished content.
- Metamorphosis of Men In Black: Behind-the-scenes featurette.
- Original Featurette: A brief promotional piece.
- Visual Effects Scene Deconstructions: Two scenes with evolution stages.
- Character Animation Studies: Development stages of three characters.
- Storyboard Comparisons: Side-by-side of storyboards and final scenes.
- Scene Editing Workshop: Interactive editing of three scenes.
- Music Video featuring Will Smith: "Men in Black" music video.
- Original Theatrical and Teaser Trailers: High-definition trailers.
Movie: 69
"Men in Black," released in 1997, is a quintessential example of the alien/monster/comedy sub-genre, notable for its blend of energetic visuals, sharp humor, and the impeccable chemistry between its lead actors, Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones. The story follows agents K (Jones) and J (Smith), part of a clandestine government organization tasked with monitoring extraterrestrial activity on Earth. The plot centers around their mission to thwart an interplanetary assassin, portrayed by Vincent D'Onofrio, aiming to obliterate Earth. The film masterfully balances its action-packed narrative with comedic elements, driven largely by the dynamic performances of Smith and Jones. Smith’s youthful exuberance contrasts perfectly with Jones's seasoned gravitas, creating a compelling on-screen partnership.
Expertly directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, "Men in Black" utilizes special effects and CGI to bring its vibrant world to life, eliciting a live-action cartoon feel that underscores its playful tone. The film’s universe is rife with oddities, from humanoids controlled by tiny aliens to a talking dog named Frank. Linda Fiorentino’s performance as coroner Laurel Weaver adds another layer of charm. The meticulous casting choices significantly contribute to the movie's success, with D'Onofrio delivering a standout performance as the grotesque Edgar.
Despite its initial acclaim, certain elements of "Men in Black" have aged, particularly its once cutting-edge special effects and overly rapid pacing. While nostalgic viewers may still appreciate its high-energy antics and humorous sequences, newer audiences might find the film’s self-conscious parody and dated CGI less appealing. Nonetheless, the film remains an engaging watch, buoyed by the enduring appeal of its lead characters and the infectious fun they bring to the screen.
Total: 72
"Men in Black" withstands the test of time as a quintessential sci-fi/comedy classic, benefiting immensely from its strong ensemble cast, particularly Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, who share commendable on-screen chemistry. The Blu-ray release elevates the film with a finely remastered video and audio quality that offers an impressive upgrade over previous standard DVD versions. Alien characters and special effects are remarkably integrated, showing off Rick Baker’s expert craftsmanship—still a joy to behold even today. For fans and newcomers alike, this release presents a captivating opportunity to experience or revisit this highly popular title in a new light.
The Blu-ray edition of "Men in Black" delivers in various technical aspects, featuring a wonderful video transfer and equally impressive lossless soundtrack. The improvement is evident in both visual and audio fidelity, making it a strong candidate for an upgrade in any film collection. While some supplements included may feel slightly dated by current standards, new exclusive content provides additional value for both long-time enthusiasts and new audiences. However, it's essential to acknowledge that despite these enhancements, the film's material does possess an inherent silliness that might not resonate with every viewer.
In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Men in Black" is a significant step up in terms of media quality, presenting an ideal amalgamation of top-tier video and audio performance along with fitting supplementary materials. The effects are second to none—a testament to Rick Baker's talent—and the creatures blend seamlessly into the film. It is a must-have for fans looking to upgrade their existing copies or for those who have yet to experience its unique blend of humor and sci-fi intrigue. Despite minor technological flaws due to the evolving Blu-ray specification, "Men in Black" remains a storming summer movie. Grab your shades and enjoy kicking some alien butt!
avforums review by AVForumsRead review here
Video: 80
The frame has incredible depth, look for instance at the scene where Smith and other Captain Americas are on the shooting range; as Z comes in to say they only have the eye test left there is a shot of...
Audio: 80
Like other discrete effects the dialogue is not lost in this melee with the centre channel coming through loud and clear and like many high resolution audio tracks always on the button....
Extras: 80
Other that that it's what you would expect from a commentary with the usual pieces of information regarding locations, creature effects, writing and the like....
Movie: 80
I love the writing, the score and the acting by both Smith and Jones but particularly by Tommy Lee Jones who really takes this film to his heart and storms away with it....
Total: 80
The effects are second to none and a worthy feather in Bakers cap, he just seems to go from strength to strength and even to this day it's hardly been bettered, the creatures fit in so well to this feature...
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 90
During the scene following Agents K and J's questioning Edgar's wife, they are seen taking soil samples outside, and the image has a bright, vivid, lifelike appearance that is easily one of the sharpest,...
Audio: 90
Pushing the "little red button" results in the second-finest example of chest-rattling bass in the movie (keep watching for the best), not to mention some fantastic directionality as a "car" speeds through...
Extras: 90
Both Sonnenfeld and Jones are engaging with Jones oftentimes playing the role of "us" as he casually discusses how the film was made with the director, asking simple, straightforward questions as well...
Movie: 80
Different style movies these are, yes, but his range as an actor has come quite a long way since the days of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-air" and Independence Day where Smith's shtick seemed to rely completely...
Total: 90
It offers a wonderful video transfer, an equally wonderful lossless soundtrack, and enough supplements to keep the most ardent Men in Black fans busy for the better part of a day....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 80
As I always hope for with a high-def catalog remaster, detail is noticeably superior to the DVD, particularly close-ups which now boast razor-sharp textures, while wider shots also enjoy greater depth....
Audio: 80
The mix doesn't have the impact of a more modern mix, however, with dynamics between the peaks and valleys of the mix sounding a tad restrained....
Extras: 60
It's exactly as its name specifies, and oddly, given the effects-heavy nature of the track, here is when the Telestrater might have actually come in more handy....
Movie: 40
Much like the 'Scream' series was to slasher movies, back in 1997 it felt fresh to have a sci-fi comedy that skewered all the conventions of the genre, but that's since been done to death....
Total: 60
Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones do have some chemistry, but it isn't enough to surmount the ultimate flimsiness of the material....
AVSForumRead review here
Video: 92
As you look upward near the top of the hill where the blades of grass appear smaller I was able to clearly discern them moving in the wind as well....
Audio: 88
What I mean is that this mix relies on the dynamics and natural power inherent in the elements contained in the recording rather than enhancing them to make it sound “better”....
Extras: 80
Interactive Game Enhanced Telestrator Interactive Commentary with Director Barry Sonnenfeld Alien subtitle track Technical Commentary Extended and alternate scenes Metamorphosis of Men in Black Original...
Movie: 90
The two MiB find themselves in the middleof the deadly plot by an intergalactic terrorist (Vincent D'Onofrio) who has arrived on Earth to assassinate two ambassadors from opposing galaxies....
Total: 88
Marantz DV7001 Universal Disc Player Denon AVR 5308CI THX Ultra 2 Preamp/Video Processor Outlaw Audio Model 7700 seven channel amplifier B&K Reference 200.7 Series 2 seven Channel amplifier Canton "Ergo"...
Director: Barry Sonnenfeld
Actors: Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino
PlotAn experienced agent from a secret organization that polices extraterrestrial interactions on Earth, known as the Men in Black (MIB), tracks down an alien criminal, leading to an incident that reveals the alien's violent intentions. Recognizing the threat, he decides to recruit a new partner to bolster the agency's ranks. His choice is a wise-cracking, street-smart NYPD officer who chases down a suspect with unusually agile abilities. After showcasing his skills, the officer is recruited and undergoes a life-altering transformation, forsaking his identity and becoming Agent J, the newest member of the enigmatic agency.
Together, the veteran agent, now known as Agent K, and the rookie Agent J embark on a mission to thwart an intergalactic disaster. As they delve deeper into their investigation, they uncover a plot that endangers the Earth. The new partners must track down a device that is critical to the survival of the planet. Struggling to stay inconspicuous in a city teeming with unsuspecting humans and disguised aliens, the agents navigate a complex alien underworld with only their wits and an arsenal of advanced technology provided by MIB. They must work against the clock, as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance, testing their new partnership and the secretive agency's ability to protect Earth from the scum of the universe.
Writers: Lowell Cunningham, Ed Solomon
Release Date: 02 Jul 1997
Runtime: 98 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English, Spanish