Mr. and Mrs. Smith

Rating: 8/10 (20 July 2005)

There's just something too cool about spending two hours or so just looking at Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Talk about a Barbie and Ken couple!!! Whoever had the idea of putting the two of them together in what constitutes a loose and naughty remake of 1989's Kathleen Turner/Michael Douglass outing in "War of the Roses" must be basking in the glow of a brilliant idea. The classic "husband and wife bantering repartee'" movie is in the house once again. Directed by Doug Limon, "The Bourne Supremacy" (2004) and "Swingers" (1996), "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" is a delightful albeit darkly ironic allegory of the modern marriage.
Beginning and ending in the therapist's office, this film comes full circle in its panoramic treatment of married life in the twentieth century. In the beginning, the couple is obviously going through relatively normal relationship growing pains. Having been married for six years, they seem to be experiencing what most married couples experience (remember "The Seven Year Itch?). It quickly becomes apparent that their problems are far from normal and their "growing pains" far from traditional. Like most couples, each of these two individuals is keeping some secrets from the other one. Unlike most couples, their respective secrets are far more serious than the average "cookie jar theft", or "lust in my heart" type of omissions. They are both secretly hired assassins. Yes killers, snipers, hit-men/women!! They met during a hit, fell in love, and simply avoided showing one another their true colors by slipping into a boring off to work in the morning/home for dinner in the evening routine. Now after six years of marriage, they are bored with each other because they obviously can share so little of their "real" life with their mate. All this makes for a great dilemma. Don't misunderstand, this movie is far from perfect, but what it is is entertaining and really pretty to look at.
Now, back to the stars. Both of these "mega stars" had great notices in small parts at the start of their careers. Pitt's memorable turn in "Thelma and Louise" and Jolie's performance in "Hackers" are the kind of unforgettable little parts that one doesn't easily forget and that set one up for success. Both have gone on to become big stars with bigger expectations. Both actors are "supposed" to make their movies make money. Unfortunately they have both had their share of questionable vehicles, but that goes with the territory. Both are well established and incontrovertibly talented actors. It truly gives one pause to wonder just how well the chemistry so fondly bandied about Hollywood circles will gel between these two strong personalities. Well.suffice it to say, the fireworks abound. Throughout this movie, these two click on all cylinders. In the indomitable style of Tracy and Hepburn, Pitt and Jolie intellectually and physically spar from beginning to end making for a raucous and undeniably satisfying jaunt through the intricacies of their erstwhile complicated lives. The plot is relatively simple - with a twist. Their chosen occupations are exposed to one another when they are sent on the same job. Because of the interference of the other "half", they are equally unsuccessful in their assassination attempt and are therefore tasked with the unpleasant job of "taking care of" the renegade intruder in their respective operations. Of course, it is soon revealed that their nemeses are indeed themselves. In order to not give away a couple of cute little twists, no more will be revealed here. The important thing is that the movie is two hours of grand fun. Never taking itself too seriously, this vehicle is a kaleidoscope of enchanting little surprises. Smooth and non-interfering direction combined with seamless and skilled acting make for an enjoyable and entertaining respite from the hustle and bustle of life. To be able to immerse oneself in the altogether more complicated existence of these two characters makes the moviegoer wont for more. The success or failure of this type of movie rests on the ability of the film to leave the viewer breathless. In that respect they succeed. Rampant with lots of action, chases, and cool stunts, "Smith" is engaging entertaining.
Bottom line, the chemistry is there, the action is there, and fine direction is there. As in his previous outings, Limon is able to carry the characters through the action sequences without sacrificing depth of character in any way. This is as much as testament to the acting ability of his stars as to his directorial prowess, but the amalgamation of the two makes for a very likable film. If you haven't seen it yet, go see it.