Donald Glover is eager for a strong reaction, positive or negative, to his upcoming Prime Video series, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith.” While he desires audience love, he acknowledges that any intense response is preferable to indifference.
The eight-episode series, co-created by Glover and Francesca Sloane, features Glover and Maya Erskine as the titular spy couple in a storyline distinct from the 2005 film. In this reimagining, the focus shifts to two strangers unknowingly entering a spy agency as a married couple, exploring themes of trust, teamwork, and the complexities of relationships.
Donald Glover
Glover wanted to address modern perspectives on marriage, contrasting it with the original movie’s emphasis on the spy-action aspect. Sloane, initially skeptical, found resonance in exploring love, trust, and vulnerability in a spy couple’s relationship, especially amidst the uncertainties of the world. Although Phoebe Waller-Bridge initially considered the role of Jane, Erskine eventually embraced the character, bringing a relatable dimension to the series.
The show delves into the intricacies of marriage, blending espionage thrills with real relationship nuances, including the messy and mundane aspects. Glover draws inspiration from unconventional sources, seeking to subvert glamorized spy tropes and highlight the awkward, unglamorous realities.
The series aims to humanize its characters, portraying them in everyday situations, even addressing mundane activities like going to the bathroom. With a mix of sleek spy moments and relatable scenes, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” promises a fresh take on the spy genre, with Glover emphasizing the importance of eliciting a genuine reaction from viewers.
