Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie famously filmed Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2004. Their on-screen chemistry ignited a real-life romance that captivated the world, making the movie a significant milestone in both their personal and professional lives.
A Deep Dive into Mr. & Mrs. Smith Production
The story of Mr. & Mrs. Smith extends beyond its plot of two assassins unknowingly married to each other. The film’s production itself was a whirlwind of casting changes, location shoots, and intense media scrutiny, all contributing to its eventual box office success and its lasting impact on popular culture. Understanding the timeline and key events surrounding its filming provides a fascinating glimpse into the creation of this iconic movie.
Pre-Production and Casting
The initial concept for Mr. & Mrs. Smith was developed by writer Simon Kinberg. Before Pitt and Jolie were attached, other actors were considered for the roles. Notably, Nicole Kidman was initially slated to play Mrs. Smith opposite Pitt, but scheduling conflicts forced her to withdraw. This opened the door for Angelina Jolie, whose presence instantly elevated the project to a new level of public interest. The casting process alone generated considerable buzz, foreshadowing the media frenzy that would accompany the film’s release and the actors’ burgeoning relationship.
Principal Photography and Location Shoots
Principal photography for Mr. & Mrs. Smith commenced in early 2004 and wrapped up later that same year. The film utilized various locations, including cities like Los Angeles, New York City, and even some international settings. However, much of the filming took place on sound stages, allowing for the creation of elaborate sets and the controlled environments necessary for complex action sequences. The intensity of the filming schedule, combined with the actors’ dedication to their roles, contributed to the palpable chemistry between Pitt and Jolie on screen.
Post-Production and Release
Following principal photography, Mr. & Mrs. Smith entered the post-production phase. This involved editing the raw footage, adding visual effects, composing the musical score, and finalizing the sound design. The film was officially released in the United States on June 10, 2005, to mixed reviews from critics but significant box office success. The global interest in the film was fueled by the ongoing media coverage of Pitt and Jolie’s relationship, further cementing its place in cinematic history.
The Impact of Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Mr. & Mrs. Smith transcended its status as a mere action-comedy; it became a cultural phenomenon. The film not only showcased the talents of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie but also marked the beginning of their highly publicized relationship, forever intertwining their names with the movie’s legacy.
Box Office Success and Critical Reception
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, who generally praised the actors’ chemistry but criticized the plot as being somewhat predictable, Mr. & Mrs. Smith was a massive commercial success. It grossed over $478 million worldwide, proving its appeal to a broad audience. The film’s blend of action, comedy, and romance, coupled with the star power of its leads, made it a box office juggernaut.
The Birth of “Brangelina”
Perhaps the most significant impact of Mr. & Mrs. Smith was the birth of the celebrity couple known as “Brangelina.” The on-set romance between Pitt and Jolie ignited a media frenzy that followed them for years. Their relationship became a constant source of public fascination, further amplifying the film’s cultural significance. While their relationship ultimately ended in divorce, its impact on the film’s legacy remains undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Here are some frequently asked questions about the film and its production:
FAQ 1: When did Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie officially start dating?
While filming Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2004, rumors of a romance between Pitt and Jolie circulated. However, they officially acknowledged their relationship after Pitt’s divorce from Jennifer Aniston in 2005.
FAQ 2: Who directed Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
Mr. & Mrs. Smith was directed by Doug Liman, known for his action-packed films like The Bourne Identity and Edge of Tomorrow.
FAQ 3: What is the plot of Mr. & Mrs. Smith about?
The film revolves around a married couple, John (Brad Pitt) and Jane (Angelina Jolie) Smith, who are both secretly assassins working for competing organizations. They are assigned to eliminate each other, leading to a series of action-packed confrontations and ultimately, a rekindling of their passion.
FAQ 4: What genre is Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a blend of genres, including action, comedy, and romance.
FAQ 5: Where were the main locations for filming Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
While some exterior shots were filmed in cities like Los Angeles and New York City, much of the filming took place on sound stages, allowing for the construction of elaborate sets.
FAQ 6: What was the budget for Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
The budget for Mr. & Mrs. Smith was estimated to be around $110 million.
FAQ 7: Who wrote the screenplay for Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
The screenplay for Mr. & Mrs. Smith was written by Simon Kinberg.
FAQ 8: How did the critics review Mr. & Mrs. Smith upon its release?
Critical reception was mixed. Some praised the chemistry between Pitt and Jolie and the action sequences, while others found the plot to be somewhat predictable.
FAQ 9: Did Mr. & Mrs. Smith win any awards?
While it didn’t win any major awards, Mr. & Mrs. Smith was nominated for several Teen Choice Awards and People’s Choice Awards, winning some of them.
FAQ 10: Is there a sequel to Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
Despite discussions and ideas over the years, there has never been a sequel to Mr. & Mrs. Smith. However, a television series reboot is currently in development.
FAQ 11: Were there any injuries on set during the filming of Mr. & Mrs. Smith?
Given the intense action sequences, there were reportedly some minor bumps and bruises, but no serious injuries were sustained during filming. The stunt coordinators and actors prioritized safety throughout the production.
FAQ 12: How did the filming of Mr. & Mrs. Smith impact Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s careers?
Mr. & Mrs. Smith significantly impacted both Pitt and Jolie’s careers, solidifying their status as A-list movie stars and creating unprecedented media attention around their personal lives. It elevated their profiles and led to numerous high-profile projects in the years that followed.