The tale of spy couple Mr. & Mrs. Smith receives a makeover in the latest Prime Video series featuring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as the leads. Created by Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover, this rendition offers a multifaceted exploration of espionage, marital dynamics and subtle humour across eight episodes.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith the series follows the two lonely strangers who land jobs working for a mysterious spy agency that offers them a glorious life of wealth, world travel, and a dream brownstone in Manhattan. They get new identities as Mr and Mrs John and Jane Smith and an arranged marriage. John and Jane navigate a high risk mission every week while also handling their marriage. Their complex cover story becomes even more complicated when they catch real feelings for each other.
Departing from its 2005 predecessor which starred Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in which neither character knew their significant other was a spy, this series introduces John and Jane as fully aware of each other's covert identities.
This fact may disappoint purists but opens doors for a deeper examination of the complexities of their relationship.
Whether or not you enjoy the reboot depends on your expectations. I mean, if you're looking for a drama that analyses relationships and marital problems, you've come to the right place because Mr. And Mrs. Smith leans heavier on that aspect. However, if you're looking to watch some espionage action, well, don't get your hopes up because this version drags out slowly and may take a while to get to the point.
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There's no complaints in the acting department. Glover and Erskine deliver captivating performances and have effortless on-screen chemistry. Despite initial speculation surrounding Phoebe Waller-Bridge's involvement, Erskine's portrayal of Jane adds depth and authenticity.
The duo's comedic backgrounds subtly shine as they provide mature, adult-centric humour that resonates with viewers. The series is further enriched by a roster of guest appearances, including Alexander Skarsgård, Paul Dano, and Parker Posey, who bring diversity and intrigue to the Smiths' world. Each encounter prompts John and Jane to re-evaluate their relationship, igniting themes of personal growth and introspection.
However, the first season veers too heavily into marital issues, overshadowing espionage elements. While the exploration of the ups and downs of married life is interesting enough, some episodes feel burdened by repetitive relationship issues. This emphasis may alienate viewers seeking adrenaline-pumping action synonymous with the 2005 film. Moreover, the pacing of the series or a slow buildup may deter viewers expecting immediate thrills. While the final episode redeems the series with drama and intrigue, viewers have to endure a sluggish progression to reach this payoff.
In essence, Mr. & Mrs. Smith offers a nuanced portrayal of marriage amidst a backdrop of espionage. While it may diverge from the action-packed expectations set by its cinematic predecessor, the series captivates with its exploration of complex characters and relationships. Across eight episodes, there's a nice blend of humour, drama and intrigue thanks to its unique storytelling and refreshing take on a beloved narrative. Patient viewers will be rewarded in the latter half of the season where the narrative crescendos to gripping heights. Whether you're drawn to spy thrillers or character-driven dramas, this modern take on a classic tale is worth the investment.
- Mr. & Mrs. Smith
- Starring Donald Glover, Maya Erskine, Parker Posey
- Created by Francesca Sloane
- Now streaming on Prime Video
