Will Smith is an acclaimed and versatile actor in Hollywood. Known for his acting prowess, he has successfully portrayed various roles across different genres, including action, comedy, and drama. With his captivating performances, he has managed to evoke emotions such as laughter, tears, and applause from millions of fans. Interestingly, there is a Will Smith movie that once deeply moved Paul Thomas Anderson, an esteemed director in the industry, unexpectedly shedding tears.

Anderson loved the theme and the acting of Will Smith in this movie that even though he makes tearjerkers himself, he found himself tearing up watching this movie.

A flawless movie that blended in every element that Paul Thomas Anderson loved enough to make him cry

In a 2012 interview with The Washington Post, Anderson shared his take on the Will Smith movie that made him cry: Men in Black 3. He was deeply moved by the time travel element featured in the film. He perceived it as being “inherently hopeful, optimistic, and sweet.” The director mentioned that this particular theme struck a chord with his fascination for lives and nostalgia because, as he admits, “I’m a sucker for that stuff.” Interestingly, he delved into this theme in his movie, The Master.

Science fiction as a genre has always drawn the acclaimed director. He himself enjoys creating movies that push the boundaries of imagination and challenge our perception of reality. As reflected in several of his movies, he loves to take his unique angle on sci-fi. Thus, Anderson found the film’s ability to immerse viewers in its world as impressive. He appreciated how the movie delved into philosophical and existential questions. 

What made it more special for him was that he had the opportunity to collaborate with the director, Barry Sonnenfeld, on his debut film called Hard Eight. Anderson has always spoken highly of Sonnenfeld. He mentioned how much he learned from him and how supportive he was during their time working together as budding filmmakers.

During his interview, Anderson was all praises for the commitment that Smith brought to the role. But ironically enough, the role didn’t always interest him.

Will Smith was initially reluctant to join the Men In Black franchise

On many occasions, Smith has shared that he initially declined the opportunity to star in 1997 blockbuster Men in Black, a movie that dealt with aliens and extraterrestrial beings. He explained that he didn’t want to do another movie involving aliens after his appearance in Independence Day, which came out a year earlier in 1996.

However, Steven Spielberg, the producer of Men in Black and renowned for his exceptional sci-fi films like Jaws, E.T., and Jurassic Park, managed to change Smith’s mind. Spielberg went to great lengths by sending a helicopter to bring the actor to discuss the film. Ultimately unable to turn down such a figure, Smith agreed to take on the role. And the rest is history.

What do you think of Will Smith’s portrayal and acting in Men In Black? Let us know in the comments below.