Review of Men in Black 3 (2012) by Olatunde A — 12 Jun 2013

Though built on a completely overdone premise, MIB 3 gets back to the ways of the original. Now, time travel is very overdone, and this story doesn't really take it in any unique directions. The strength comes with a great new supporting cast, led by Josh Brolin as the young K. It's definitely cool to see MIB back in the late 60s, as well as the human-alien interactions of that time. There are two things about this movie, though, that really make it for me. 1) Griffin. Played perfectly by Michael Stuhlbarg, Griffin is a member of an alien race that can see all possible timelines/outcomes in both the past and the future, and he is constantly talking (to himself or anyone who may be listening) as he examines out-loud the near past and future as the events unfold, though never quite seeming to care what is going on around him in the present. This makes for fascinating sequences where he is blending subtle events into the present and highlighting what tiny things would have changed everything. He is really what makes THIS time travel story unique as he is a constant reminder of how greatly every action you take can impact the future. And 2) An extremely surprising and emotional sequence at the end where you learn the true nature of K as a person and also of J's past. It's a fantastic moment to end the trilogy on, and the action sequences and comedy are very well done. It's a must-see for anybody who enjoyed the original.

4 stars: Great.