Men In Black (1997)
If ever you feel that you need a little perspective in your life, Men In Black is the film for you. Funny, complex, and visually stunning – this movie succeeds in presenting a fully developed alternative world, in which immigration means managing the flow of beings from other planets, as much as from other countries. Following the path of a determined NYPD detective, the film reveals the existence of, not only a secret organization tasked with policing extra-terrestrial affairs on earth, but also of a vast array of aliens living undetected among human beings, throughout society. Earth then finds itself the battleground between two warring alien species, and only the Men In Black can save us – and them.
What makes Men In Black so different – and uplifting – is that, for once, Earth is neither the instigator, nor the initial victim. Here, Earth is busily providing refuge, safety and opportunity to those that need it – rather than simply destroying anything that looks a bit different. Though the Men In Black serve to keep the existence of these aliens a secret from the general population, it is clear that some sections of society are tolerant, inclusive and good examples of acceptance and kindness – which is something the real world has desperately needed for a very long time.
But, isn’t this all just a way of reinforcing our perception of ourselves as the centre of the universe? You might think that, until the delicious and beautiful final reel sees Barry Sonnenfeld’s camera pull back and back to reveal exactly what our position in the universe is. It’s most certainly not the centre – and that makes our efforts to provide sanctuary and support to our fellow living creatures all the more impressive.
