MEN IN BLACK III, Sonnefeld to direct, Cohen to write, but Will Smith to star?

// October 30th, 2009 // What's Poppin

Sony is moving forward on “MIB 3,” the third pic in its sci-comedy franchise.

“Tropic Thunder” writer Etan Cohen is penning the script, and Barry Sonnenfeld, who helmed the first two films, is said to be attached to the new installment, though there is no formal deal or offer as yet.

The studio is eyeing a 2010 start date and could go as soon as the spring.

The X-factor remains Will Smith. The A-lister, who starred with Tommy Lee Jones in the first two, has not committed to the pic, though in recent days the buzz in development circles has been that he is now interested in returning. Smith does not currently have a go movie lined up.Tommy Lee Jones’ involvement is uncertain.

Sony announced in April that it would bring back the tale of covert, pseudonymous agents who stalk the earth fighting disguised aliens, zapping beasts and memories as they go.

“MIB” has proved to be one of the most successful comedy franchises of all time. The two pics — which came out in 1997 and 2002, respectively — combined to earn nearly $1.1 billion worldwide. The $250m domestic of the first film reps the second-highest total of Smith’s career.