Sony is developing a sequel to 'Men in Black' with writer Chris Bremner, known for 'Bad Boys for Life'

Sony Pictures is moving forward with a fresh installment in the iconic Men in Black series, enlisting Chris Bremner, known for writing Bad Boys for Life, to craft the screenplay. Bremner also contributed to Bad Boys: Ride or Die, released last year.

Given Bremners history with another Will Smith-led franchise, there is speculation about Smith possibly returning for this new Men in Black project. However, sources familiar with the production emphasize that it is still in the very early planning stages.

The previous effort to expand the franchise came with Men in Black: International in 2019, featuring Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson as new recruits in the secret organization monitoring alien activity on Earth. The film underperformed, earning $253.9 million against a budget exceeding $100 million, and did not reinvigorate the series.

For comparison, the last film starring Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, Men in Black 3 (2012), grossed over $654 million worldwide.

The Men in Black franchise originated from a comic book series by Lowell Cunningham with illustrations by Sandy Carruthers, published by Aircel Comics (later Malibu Comics). The series explored the enigmatic Men in Black who visit individuals after UFO encounters and ran for six issues between January 1990 and July 1991.

Since then, the franchise has expanded to include an animated series that aired 53 episodes from 1997 to 2000 and an interactive theme park ride, Men in Black: Alien Attack, at Universal Studios Florida. Earlier attempts at a fourth film with Smith, Jones, and director Barry Sonnenfeld, as well as a crossover with 21 Jump Street known as MIB 23, never came to fruition.

Author's Analysis: Men in Black Franchise Reboot in Early Development

The decision by Sony Pictures to engage Chris Bremner as the screenwriter signals a careful approach to reviving the Men in Black series. Bremner's previous work on the Bad Boys franchise demonstrates his experience handling established properties with high-profile actors, which could influence speculation about a potential Will Smith return.

It is important to note that the project remains in the early planning stages. No casting decisions or release timelines have been confirmed, and any assumptions about the involvement of past franchise stars are purely speculative at this point.

Comparing past box office results, Men in Black: International (2019) underperformed with $253.9 million against a budget over $100 million, while Men in Black 3 (2012) grossed $654 million worldwide. This contrast underscores the challenge of balancing franchise nostalgia with fresh appeal.

Originating from Lowell Cunningham's comic series in the early 1990s, the Men in Black brand has expanded beyond films to include an animated series and theme park attractions. These extensions highlight the franchise's cultural footprint, which Sony may aim to leverage in the upcoming reboot.

Sources:

• ‘Men in Black’ Sequel in the Works at Sony With ‘Bad Boys for Life’ Writer Chris Bremner

Author: Logan Reeves
Logan Reeves is a sports analyst and journalist. He writes match reviews, conducts athlete interviews, and produces data-driven predictions.