"Mr. and Mrs. Smith on Amazon Prime wasn't what I expected. And thank goodness for that!" The announcement of yet another remake often triggers groans, but my skepticism vanished when I heard Donald Glover and Francesca Sloane were attached to this project. Glover, fresh off the chilling "SWARM," and Sloane, with her experience on "Atlanta" and "Fargo," promised a unique spin on the classic story. Did they deliver?
The show opens with John (Glover) and Jane (Erskine) Smith meeting virtually – not through a dating app, but through an espionage agency's AI questionnaire. Pasts are erased, identities fabricated, and boom, they're married partners in both love and lethal missions. They travel the world, gather intel, eliminate targets, and find solace in each other's arms. It's the ultimate test of compatibility: can their skills conquer missions while their hearts navigate the rollercoaster of a real relationship?
Glover is phenomenal, seamlessly transitioning from his signature charm to a convincing action hero. I wouldn't have envisioned him in high-octane fight scenes, but he pulls it off with the agility of a seasoned pro. Erskine, a new face for me, is a revelation. Her voice-acting background translates beautifully to her on-screen presence. She's effortlessly relatable, bringing both humor and depth to Jane. Their chemistry is undeniable, sizzling with the complexities of love, partnership, and the thrill (and occasional absurdity) of their covert lives.
"Mr. & Mrs. Smith" delivers a potent blend of action, dark humor, and emotional depth. The world feels grounded and immersive, a stark contrast to the glossy Hollywood version. While comparisons might be inevitable, this show carves its own path, offering a more nuanced exploration of relationships and the psychological impact of a life shrouded in espionage.
Despite its strengths, there are minor stumbles. Pacing can be uneven, and some episodes suffer from weaker plotting. However, the show's overall charm and originality easily overshadow these hiccups.
Should you watch it? Absolutely! "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" is a refreshing take on familiar tropes, with stellar performances, witty dialogue, and action sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a fan of the original film or simply enjoy spy thrillers with a dash of humor and humanity, this show is definitely worth your time.
Final Grade: B+ (with potential to reach A- in future seasons)