The highly anticipated series Mr. & Mrs. Smith has arrived on Amazon Prime Video, and it brings a fresh and subversive take on the spy comedy thriller genre. Starring the talented Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, the show offers a slow-burn romance amidst the high-stakes world of espionage. While the absence of Phoebe Waller-Bridge may leave some fans disappointed, Erskine proves herself as a worthy replacement. With Glover’s signature sensitivity and Erskine’s stony presence, the chemistry between the two leads is a surprising delight.
Though Mr. & Mrs. Smith is billed as a reboot of the 2005 film that starred Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, it takes a different approach to the story. Instead of a long-married couple discovering their secret identities, the series follows the journey of John (Glover) and Jane (Erskine), two strangers who pose as a married couple for their spy agency. This unique twist adds an element of intrigue and tension to their relationship, as they navigate the challenges of blending their personal lives with their dangerous missions.
The show’s creators, Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover, clearly prioritize the exploration of relationships over espionage. In fact, John and Jane often prove to be less than stellar spies, adding a refreshing and relatable touch to the series. Each episode takes the couple to new and exotic locations, including ski slopes, Lake Como, and glamorous New York ballrooms. Along the way, they encounter a star-studded cast of cameos, including Parker Posey, Sharon Horgan, Alexander Skarsgård, Ron Perlman, and Paul Dano.
Pippa Middleton Stylish Beach Getaway in St Barts
As the series progresses, viewers are treated to a deeper understanding of the company that employs John and Jane. However, the show wisely keeps the focus on the couple’s evolving romance, with the action set-pieces serving as a thrilling backdrop. The missions John and Jane undertake mirror the milestones of a budding relationship, such as moving in together, going on their first holiday, and meeting couple friends. This clever framework breathes new life into the romantic comedy and spy genres, offering unexpected observations and dialogue.
While Glover and Erskine may not possess the same star power as their predecessors, their on-screen dynamic is undeniably captivating. Their hesitant and confrontational energy perfectly complements the show’s central theme of two strangers falling in love while working together. It’s a refreshing departure from the cliché of an unhappily married couple reconciling while working against each other.
One standout moment comes in the second episode when Jane and John engage in a playful conversation about the dubbing of a character in an old cartoon. The scene showcases Erskine’s stony and sensitive presence, while Glover’s character displays his charm and wit. Moments like these add depth and authenticity to their relationship, creating a slow-burn appeal that leads to genuine delight.
Despite the show’s strengths, it is not without its flaws. The pacing of John and Jane’s relationship feels rushed at times, leaving viewers questioning the depth of their connection. The series dives headfirst into their romance without fully exploring their individual backstories or the reasons behind their attraction. While their care for each other is evident, the reasons for their bond remain somewhat elusive.
Additionally, the show’s ambitions sometimes clash with its execution. The juxtaposition of the couple’s emotionally charged disagreements with the wish-fulfillment pleasures of their high-stakes missions can feel jarring. The balance between bitter and sweet is not always well-maintained, leaving some aspects of their relationship feeling underdeveloped.
