Getcha popcorn ready GWCers! This Geek Deathmatch features a couple of alien wranglers, Agent J from Men In Black (1997) and Captain Steven Hiller from Independence Day (1996). Both roles were played by The Fresh Prince himself, Will Smith. Since the characters are played by the same actor (filmed less than 1 year apart, MiB started filming in March of 1996 while ID4 starting filming in July 1995), it is no surprise that the characters are by in large similar.
However, there are stark differences. In Men In Black Capt Hiller is a warrior. He is perhaps the only fighter pilot not only able to survive the initial attack on the alien ship but he also manages to bring down and capture an alien that is chasing him. Keeping his wits about him he is able to bring the captured alien to a secret military base where he displays his adaptive skills by piloting an alien fighter into space and eventually destroying it with a computer virus and a nuclear tipped missile.
On the other hand in Men In Black Agent J is a resourceful policeman, able to think so far outside the box that the mere knowledge of aliens hiding in plain sight brings forth his best skills and talents. Agent J’s focus is not in obliterating the aliens but rather in policing them and ensuring Earth remains a same place to live. Perhaps most importantly is Agent J’s ability to not only co-exist but thrive with his obstinate (and later we find out his benefactor in place of his diseased father) but aging partner.
Both these gentlemen have skill sets. Both are very successful at what they do. But now it’s time to pin them against each other in a GWC Geek Deathmatch. To the death even. And it’s up to you to decide which character wins. Place your vote and let us know why by replaying to this thread.
Let’s go get us some alien!