Donald Glover and Maya Erskine discuss their roles as spies on Prime Video's 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith', a thrilling and comedic show centered around a married couple navigating the spy life together. The hosts explore the cool and luscious qualities of the show while also discussing the complexities of Donald Glover's writing style and past controversies.
The show Mr. & Mrs. Smith successfully combines elements of a tense thriller, a romantic comedy, and a character study, providing an engaging viewing experience.
The action sequences in Mr. & Mrs. Smith often lack believability and consistency, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the show.
Deep dives
Chemistry and Character Study
Mr. and Mrs. Smith, the new spy show on Prime Video, explores the marriage and relationship of John Smith (played by Donald Glover) and Jane Smith (played by Maya Erskine) who are undercover spies. Despite initial doubts about the chemistry between the two main characters, the show quickly proves that their connection is strong and captivating. The performers' nuanced and nerdy chemistry, as well as their unique facial expressions, make their interactions intriguing. As the series progresses, it becomes more of a romantic comedy and character study than an action thriller. The exploration of their evolving relationship and the power dynamics within it provides a rewarding and enjoyable viewing experience.
Issues with Action Sequences
One aspect of Mr. and Mrs. Smith that falls short is the believability of the action sequences. The main characters, John and Jane, often come across as clumsy and inexperienced during fight scenes, lacking the skills and training expected of seasoned spies. Their handling of guns and hand-to-hand combat feels unconvincing and awkward. While it may be argued that their lack of competence is a deliberate choice to add humor, there are moments where it is unclear if this is intentional or a weakness in the execution. On occasion, the show's portrayal of the characters' spy abilities and actions feels inconsistent and detracts from the overall experience.
Issues with Character Writing
Another critique of the show lies in the characterization of Jane, particularly in relation to Donald Glover's own controversial issues with women in his previous work. Some viewers may find that certain elements of Jane's character, written in a specific Donald Glover-esque manner, raise discomfort. Given the artist's past portrayal of relationships with Asian and Black women, concerns arise regarding the intentions and perspectives that influenced the writing. There is a sense that the character's behavior and treatment by John reflect the artist's own thoughts and actions, raising questions about the depth and nuance of the portrayal. While others may interpret the dynamics differently, it is a valid concern to consider in relation to the overall impact and message of the show.
On Prime Video's fun new spy show Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Donald Glover and Maya Erskine play spies going undercover as a married couple. The show is part tense thriller and part romantic comedy. But it's also a character study, of two people who have made their way into the spy life and aren't sure how they feel about being in it together.