In the world of espionage and romance, Donald Glover takes center stage in Prime Video’s eight-episode series, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” a reimagining of the 2005 action-comedy that once featured Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. As Glover steps into Pitt’s shoes, a charming encounter with the A-list actor adds an interesting layer to the remake. Let’s delve into how the star-studded journey unfolds and the contemporary twist that awaits viewers.
Remakes are a delicate territory, but Donald Glover, both the star and co-creator of the new “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” embraced the challenge. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight at the show’s premiere, Glover revealed his initial hesitation towards remakes, stating, “I’m not a big fan of remakes, so this was kind of a big deal to kind of take it on.” However, after watching the original, he envisioned turning it into a delightful date show for couples.
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To step into the shoes of John Smith, originally portrayed by Brad Pitt, Glover reached out to the Oscar-winning actor for some guidance. However, what ensued was a classic Pitt move. Glover shared, “Brad was like, you know, he just Brad Pitt-ed his way out of it. I was like, ‘I just need some tips,’ and he just charmed his way out of it. He was like, ‘Oh, you’ll do great, kid.’ That kind of thing.” Despite the lack of substantial tips, Glover acknowledged Pitt’s sweetness and appreciated the advice he received.
The new “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” deviates from its cinematic predecessor by adding a contemporary twist to the classic spy story. Teaming up with Maya Erskine, Glover’s John and Erskine’s Jane are aware of each other’s espionage careers, forced to go undercover as a married couple. This departure from the original plot brings a fresh perspective to the beloved narrative, making it more relevant to today’s audience.
Variety television critic Alison Herman hailed the series as an “improved” version of the movie’s conceit. Describing it as more melancholy and minor-key, Herman noted the show’s contemporary essence, drawing parallels to the unconventional banter between Glover and Erskine and the modern setting of a New York townhouse. The series is described as feeling more like “Black Mirror” than “Mission: Impossible,” providing a distinctive take on the spy genre.
All eight episodes of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” are set to stream on Prime Video on Feb. 2, offering fans and newcomers alike the chance to experience Glover’s take on the iconic role and the intriguing twists woven into the fabric of this contemporary spy thriller.
As Donald Glover steps into the shoes of Brad Pitt, the “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” remake promises not only a charming encounter between the two stars but also a fresh and contemporary take on the beloved spy narrative. With a blend of romance, espionage, and a modern twist, the series invites viewers to embark on a thrilling journey, reminding us that even the classics can be reinvented for a new era.