The highly anticipated spy series, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” featuring the dynamic duo Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, has just unveiled its entire first season on Prime Video as of February 2, 2024. Co-conceived by Glover and showrunner Francesca Sloane, this modernized take on the 2005 blockbuster, originally starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, revolves around a married couple with exceptional spy skills.
The star-studded cast includes John Turturro, Paul Dano, Sarah Paulson, Parker Posey, Wagner Moura, Michaela Coel, Alexander Skarsgård, and Eiza González, enhancing the intrigue throughout the eight compelling episodes.
Critics have been buzzing about this TV remake, and here’s a roundup of what they have to say about Season 1 of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith.”
HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO THE MOVIE?
According to Alison Herman from Variety, the TV series convincingly argues that the film’s concept was always better suited for a different medium. Kristen Baldwin of Entertainment Weekly commends the show for evolving and honoring the original with nimble writing and the natural chemistry between the leads. TV Guide’s Lyvie Scott notes the series’ aim for restraint and wit, departing from the schlock and awe of the original. The Verge’s Charles Pulliam-Moore appreciates the stylistic and narrative updates that cultivate a compelling story.
Christian Bone from We Got This Covered describes the series as a successful marriage of action-thriller and mumblecore romcom, avoiding the movie adaptation curse with its laidback charm, effective comedy, and exceptional chemistry.
HOW ARE DONALD GLOVER AND MAYA ERSKINE?
Maya Erskine and Donald Glover shine individually and together in this unique spy thriller meets romcom, reimagining the film in a fun way, according to Tessa Smith of Mama’s Geeky. Financial Times’ Dan Einav praises the pair’s charming performances, exuding effortless, effervescent chemistry. Collider’s Emily Bernard highlights that Glover and Erskine quickly prove their excellence, both together and as individuals on a journey of self-discovery amid deadly chaos.
Carla Meyer of San Francisco Chronicle notes the warmth Glover and Erskine bring to their roles, lacking the action chops of their predecessors but delivering believable moves. ScreenRant’s Rachel LaBonte emphasizes the genuine sparks created by their quick-as-a-whip banter and clashing personalities.
WHAT ABOUT THE SHOW’S GUEST STARS?
The guest stars, including Sarah Paulson, Sharon Horgan, and Michaela Coel, receive praise for their roles. San Francisco Chronicle’s Carla Meyer highlights Parker Posey and Wagner Moura’s obvious fun as a couple matching the charisma and dangerous energy of Jane and John. Hollywood Reporter’s Angie Han finds amusement in the high-wattage cameos, with recognizable faces like Paul Dano, Michaela Coel, and John Turturro playing potential allies, enemies, or marks. TV Guide’s Lyvie Scott points out particular standouts, with Michaela Coel, Paul Dano, Parker Posey, and Wagner Moura having inner lives so interesting that a spin-off is wished for.
Emily Bernard from Collider singles out Episode 6, praising Sarah Paulson’s turn as a key player in John and Jane’s personal life as the best guest performance of the season.
DOES THE WRITING AND DIRECTING DELIVER?
According to Anita Singh of Daily Telegraph (UK), the show’s fresh results stem from creators Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover opting for something wittier and more thoughtful than a standard action thriller. Black Girl Nerds’ Cassondra Feltus applauds the series for subverting crime thriller and rom-com genres, offering a look at the reality behind espionage.
The Verge’s Charles Pulliam-Moore acknowledges the effort put into updating the quintessential elements of the 2006 film for a modern audience. Collider’s Emily Bernard appreciates the effective creative choices, especially how the show prioritizes character over world-building. TV Guide’s Lyvie Scott mentions the minimalistic eye of director Hiro Murai, shooting even everyday corners of New York like an Architectural Digest spread.
HOW DOES IT EXPLORE THEMES OF MARRIAGE AND ESPIONAGE?
TV Guide’s Lyvie Scott notes that most episodes focus on one mission, serving as a metaphor for the couple’s latest relationship hurdle. Emily Bernard from Collider appreciates the show’s subversion of tropes and clichés, describing the characters’ high-intensity fights as both silly and charming. Entertainment Weekly’s Kristen Baldwin highlights the pleasantly nostalgic structure, blending classic spy-genre elements with big-name guest stars in showcase roles.
ANY FINAL THOUGHTS?
Critics unanimously laud the series, with NPR’s Linda Holmes calling it a delightful combination of smart, deeply felt, fizzy, and funny. FandomWire’s M.N. Miller sees it as a thoughtful high-wire act for a new generation. The Movie Podcast’s Anthony Gagliardi declares it Prime Video’s best series yet, with Donald Glover and Maya Erskine delivering sexy and sophisticated performances. Den of Geek’s Rendy Jones finds it sizably entertaining and meditative, fitting for a millennial demographic. Guardian’s Lucy Mangan describes it as fast, fun, and witty, an asset worth holding onto, echoing Kristen Baldwin’s sentiment from Entertainment Weekly that this reboot is indeed a remarkable asset.
In conclusion, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” seems to have successfully captured the attention and admiration of critics, delivering an engaging and contemporary take on the beloved spy thriller genre. With its stellar cast, witty writing, and fresh perspective, the series is poised to be a standout on Prime Video in 2024.