Ah yes, the one film that solidified Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as the power couple that basically rules Hollywood. Well, not so much anymore now that they’re divorced, but Mr. and Mrs. Smith was a film made at the height of their careers and also at the height of their seemingly increasing romance. As a result, this spy action and thriller film manages to contain some of the most accurate levels of chemistry between costars, all while being one of the most enjoyable romance films of our time.
How to Stream or Download Mr. & Mrs. Smith
To stream or download the film from a digital store, click on the Download button at the end of this review. If you like Angelina Jolie, check her out in Eternals (2021), Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019), Maleficent (2014), Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life (2003), and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001). On the other hand, if you prefer Brad Pitt’s talent, definitely watch Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), Deadpool 2 (2018), World War Z (2013), Inglourious Basterds (2009), Ocean’s Thirteen (2007), Ocean’s Twelve (2004), and Ocean’s Eleven (2001).
And don’t forget to watch the TV series of the same name.
The Movie Review
The film follows the story of John and Jane Smith, a couple living in the suburban areas of New York. They seemingly have a very normal relationship from an external point of view. John Smith seems to be working as a construction executive while Jane Smith is a housewife. However, the fun begins when it turns out that they are actually both assassins.
What’s even worse is that they’re both working for rival agencies and are sent to assassinate each other. This is where their relationship takes a huge turn, as the boring suburban couple starts to practically find different opportunities to kill each other.
Doug Liman is one of my most favorite action film directors; he’s not only created films like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, but also modern classics like the Bourne Series, Jumper and Edge of Tomorrow. Of course, the rest of those films are action comedies, whereas this particular one is. To be very honest, the comedy of this film is actually the best part of it. Every single joke in this film is sharp and witty, which is part of the reason why it’s so entertaining. There’s also a ton of emotional moments that actually might hit hard for some of us. Relationship issues are one thing, but if you’re trying to kill your spouse, you know it’s going to be a weird weekend.
An important aspect of the film is the pacing of it all; there is not a single moment here in which you can be bored of the events unfolding on screen. It’s a constantly funny film, with almost always more and more things to laugh at and enjoy.
The action choreography is super shoddy at points though, but almost always has a layer of comedy that you can soak in. The film is a proper action comedy film. This is why most of the action being seductively choreographed between a husband and wife, as well as being directed with little to no filler moments is so highly appealing here.
Of course, this film would be nothing without the intensely dynamic chemistry between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Sure, they’re separated now but at the time of filming this movie, they had a synergy unlike anyone else in Hollywood.
The two played the role of a bored couple with utmost perfection, and in an action comedy film, that was a weirdly impressive feat to pull off! The moment that the two are assigned to kill each other, that’s when things absolutely take off. The film turns into a crazy, emotional, freaky roller coaster ride of not just emotions, but also ever-lasting fun.
The film doesn’t have anything exceptional when it comes to cinematography or the soundtrack, though it does feel somewhat unique when compared to the rest of the films in its genre. In particular, the action is shot really decently. There are no shaky cams here, which is why I can really appreciate the choreography in those scenes. It always feels like an action scene has been elevated whenever the screen isn’t having a seizure.
The Bottom Line
My verdict for Mr. and Mrs. Smith would be that it is a highly enjoyable movie at its best. It’s one of the most unique date night experiences, and it’s also one of the most uniquely directed action comedies, with a premise that you can just get behind! It’s nothing special when it comes to the camera work or even its soundtrack, but the level of dedication that director Doug Liman put into the action sequences is highly commendable!
