Mr. & Mrs. Smith, released in theaters on June 10, 2005, is a wickedly entertaining and explosively stylish film that expertly blends high-octane espionage with razor-sharp marital satire. The movie is a thrilling ride that sizzles with undeniable chemistry and delivers a constant barrage of laughs and adrenaline.
The story introduces John (Brad Pitt) and Jane Smith (Angelina Jolie), a seemingly ordinary suburban couple whose marriage is stuck in a rut. What their spouses don’t know is that both are highly skilled, top-tier assassins working for rival organizations.
Their perfectly mundane lives are shattered when a botched hit reveals their true professions, and they are assigned to eliminate each other. This shocking revelation ignites a spectacular and destructive battle of wits, weapons, and marital grievances, as John and Jane find their home turning into a war zone, forcing them to fight not just for their lives, but for their relationship.
The film brilliantly explores the idea that sometimes, the biggest secrets are kept closest to home.
Pitt and Jolie are utterly captivating as the titular Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Their on-screen chemistry is legendary, radiating a palpable blend of tension, passion, and comedic timing. They effortlessly transition from domestic squabbles to brutal combat, making their characters both believable and incredibly entertaining. Pitt perfectly embodies John’s laid-back charm and lethal efficiency, while Jolie brings a fierce intelligence and stunning physicality to Jane.
Vince Vaughn provides hilarious comic relief as Eddie, John’s best friend and a fellow assassin.
Adam Brody is amusing as Benjamin Danz, the hapless target who inadvertently sets events in motion.
Michelle Monaghan, Kerry Washington, Perrey Reeves (Entourage) and Keith David round out the excellent ensemble, contributing to the film’s witty dialogue and thrilling action.
Director Doug Liman orchestrates the chaos with a dynamic and stylish flair. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed and breathtaking, combining realistic combat with over-the-top spectacle. The film’s humor stems not just from the inherent absurdity of two assassins being married, but from the witty dialogue and the relatable marital spats that escalate into full-blown warfare.
The screenplay, by Simon Kinberg, is clever and keeps the audience engaged with its constant twists and turns. The film successfully balances its two genres, ensuring that both the action and the comedy land effectively.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Photo/20th Century Fox)
Reception for Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Mr. & Mrs. Smith grossed $50.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office.
The film would gross $487.3 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a blistering, high-energy thrill ride that is as much a smart relationship comedy as it is an explosive action film. It’s a testament to the magnetic power of its lead stars and a clever concept executed with immense style and humor. For anyone looking for a film that delivers non-stop entertainment, sizzling chemistry, and a unique take on both marriage and espionage, Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a definite bullseye.
