Mr and Mrs Smith

Some films are deep probing studies into the complex nature of human psychology. Films that help us understand ourselves and ask the difficult questions about what it is to be human. Some films, however, blow things up. A lot. Mr and Mrs Smith is not a subtle film. Nor is it a deep film. It is however one of the more entertaining ‘popcorn’ movies to come along in ages. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie play a struggling married couple who have drifted apart over the years, who in secret are both top assassins. A set up that sounds as crazy as it turns out to be. When both their companies send them on the same hit their identities are discovered and soon they are assigned to kill each other, bringing new meaning to ‘till death do us part.’ Coming off a mix of True Lies and Leon the film soon escalates into more and more ridiculous situations as the two rival firms get more competitive. However these are always entertaining and imaginative. The film works so well in the end because it never takes itself too seriously. The actors tongues are firmly in their cheeks the whole time, Pitt in particular is good as this kind of sly comedy, and the smart script keep the dialogue fresh and funny throughout. The old staple of the ordinary discussions in extraordinary situations is used many a time here, with the couple sorting out their personal life while dodging bullets and missiles. While the morality of the story may be questionable, neither of the characters lifestyles is particularly questioned or analysed. While it is played for laughs, they still kill people – something not called into dispute. The film does suffer from this lack of depth, its fun while it lasts and for the purpose it was made, but lacks anything that really sticks with you after you walk out of the cinema. It may be all style and little substance – but what style! Over the top, silly but always entertaining and amusing this is a great popcorn sweet film whose lack of depth and reason are made up for by the charismatic leads.