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Max and 99, on a case

Those signature lines are not the only familiar pieces of the show for fans. Smart's Sunbeam Tiger roadster, shoe phone, cone of silence, and even Hymie the Robot are given their due and handled very well—not just as passing references. (And for those really paying attention, there are also references to more obscure things, like The Claw.)

In fact, the introduction of certain Get Smart icons suggests great fun if there's a sequel. And while I was disappointed with this first stab at the franchise, I think possible future films could be promising if Carell, Hathaway, and Arkin return. The storytelling would have to be more inspired and the humor more consistent and sharp—but it could work well. After all, this movie only missed it by that much.

Talk About It

1. Smart says that our enemies "do bad things, but that's only what they do—not always who they are." What does he mean? What defines a person if not their actions? How does this philosophy mean people should treat those who do bad things?
2. In one scene, Smart helps an enemy when he realizes he knows him. How does knowing about a person change how we can feel toward them? Have you ever hated someone before you really understood them? How did your opinion later change?
3. When Smart aids the enemy, does he do it out of true compassion—or because it will help him out of a jam? What does it say about Smart that he does this for this guy, but in every other situation, he shoots the guys opposing him?

The Family Corner

Get Smart is rated PG-13 for some rude humor, action violence and language. Take the language caution seriously; there are many uses of various swear words—everything but the f-word (however, one character gives someone the finger). There's a sight gag built around two men who seem to be having sex. There's a very brief glimpse of a female character in her underwear and an open robe, and there's a brief shot of rear male nudity. And a very gross scene dealing with vomit. Violence is typical of the action/comedy genre but there are cringe-inducing moments like a character taking tiny harpoons to the face.

Photos © Copyright Warner Brothers

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