Common Sense Media Review
Lots of fun, but too scary for some kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
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Men in Black
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 37 parent reviews
Parents say that this film is a fun and entertaining sci-fi comedy that appeals to children, especially those aged 8 and up, though the level of violence and strong language can make it unsuitable for younger kids. While many find the movie light-hearted and humorous, concerns about its swearing and some creepy, unsettling scenes persist, leading parents to suggest watching with discretion based on their children's sensitivity levels.
- age suitability
- fun and entertaining
- strong language
- creepy scenes
- parental discretion
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 120 kid reviews
Kids say this sci-fi comedy is a hilarious yet slightly frightening film that's filled with profanities and moderate violence, making it suitable for older children or tweens with parental guidance. The positive messages of teamwork and friendship shine through, but the movie's frequent use of strong language and some unsettling scenes may scare younger kids.
- comedic appeal
- strong language
- moderate violence
- positive messages
- parental guidance
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
The central premise of MEN IN BLACK is that aliens have been living among us for years, monitored and controlled by a secret government agency that must keep the human population unaware. New recruit Agent J (Will Smith) joins up and learns the ropes from veteran Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones), just in time to save the world from a brand-new threat.
Is It Any Good?
Part comedy, part science-fiction parody, and part action film, the movie just keeps throwing elements into the pot. What's so original about Men in Black is its unpredictable tone. Teens will love the combination of irreverent humor, great chase sequences, and gross-out special effects.
Many kids particularly enjoy the over-the-top alien bad guys as they saunter around the countryside wreaking mayhem. But they'll save their heartiest laughs for Smith and his boyish charm. Of course, Smith's flippancy wouldn't play without Jones' 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!
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Men in Black's over-the-top weapons and violence. Does any of it seem real? Why, or why not? Does the impact of movie violence change based on how realistic it is?
Talk about aliens. Do you think that there are other intelligent creatures out there?
Have you seen the sequels Men in Black II and Men in Black III? How does the first movie compare to the rest of the franchise?
How do the characters demonstrate teamwork? Why is that an important character strength?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 2, 1997
- On DVD or streaming : May 21, 2002
- Cast : Linda Fiorentino , Tommy Lee Jones , Vincent D'Onofrio , Will Smith
- Director : Barry Sonnenfeld
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Aliens , Space
- Character Strengths : Teamwork
- Run time : 113 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language and sci-fi violence
- Awards : Academy Award - Other Category Winner , Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee , Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : February 11, 2026
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