Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

Frank Capra, the legend behind classics like It Happened One Night, created what is probably the most sensational film of his career, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. When released, it created a stir within Washington insiders and around the globe. The movie appeals to the tendencies of Capra as a director using themes such as idealism and hope. But if one looks closely, you can see ideas of pessimism start creeping in the mind of Capra. Regardless, Capra created a film that resonates with all ages and generations. With the idea of the filibuster being in the news lately, the relevance of Capra’s picture is still prevalent with Americans in today’s day and age. As a film itself, the movie does a great job switching gears from comedy to tense drama. The performances, especially from the great Jimmy Stewart, are all fantastic. I also really loved the ending!

Before the film was even in production, Sidney Buchman’s screenplay already had Hollywood in a frenzy. Joseph Breen, the head of the Hays Code office, warned studios how explosive the project is and told them it could be an attack on the democratic process, so he suggested some changes. Boy, was he ever right that it would be explosive. The film had a screening in Washington and rumors had it that senators walked out. Regardless, they did not like how they were depicted as corrupt and were heavily involved in breaking up studio theatre chains in the 1940’s. The film was banned in Nazi Germany and Mussolini’s Italy because it showed, in their eyes, how democracy is a legitimate form of government that works. Nowadays, many film, history, and political science classes use this movie to compliment the lessons. Despite the film driving politicians crazy, it became a major hit with critics and audiences.

As a film itself, it mostly works for me. I thought the film got off to a bit of a slow start but once the plot moves forward, so does the film. Originally, Capra designed his feature as a sequel to his hit Mr. Deeds Goes to Town but thought better of it. Once James Stewart, the everyday idealistic actor that every American loved joined the project, Capra decided to make it a standalone picture.

Jefferson Smith (James Stewart) is appointed the empty senator vacancy spot after the passing of one of the senators. He is an idealistic, naïve young man who heads The Boy Rangers. Jefferson is eager to use this position to pass a bill involving the Rangers. On the other side of the spectrum, Jefferson is most likely elected due to his lack of political experience and that he could be taken advantage of by other higher-ranking senators. He reunites with the state’s lead Senator, Joseph Paine (Claude Rains) who is well-respected…and corrupt. He is under the influence of powerful businessman, Jim Taylor (Edward Arnold). Once Jefferson arrives in the nation’s capital, it becomes clear that he will be used for a dam bill…that will be in conflict with Paine’s bill. Originally seen as a pushover, including from his cynic secretary Saunders (Jean Arthur), will Jefferson have the strength to stand up to these powerful men who could easily destroy his political career if they wanted?

Throughout, the performances were excellent. James Stewart has enough of that idealistic charisma to make me believe in his cause. His final scenes are very, very powerful. He also exhibited great chemistry with Jean Arthur. Her character is a cynic at first because she knows how Washington works, but once she understands Jefferson’s attitude and ambitions, she starts to believe again. The supporting cast, especially Claude Rains, deliver the goods. Rains really made Paine a nasty piece of work. Like with most of his films, Capra makes clear who the good guys and the bad guys are in his movies-no exception here. For the first time, Capra gives his characters hints of pessimism, but he does not truly leave the idea of hope and being able to believe in one’s self too far way.

Overall, there is no denying that Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a classic. As a film, it is funny, heartfelt, dramatic, and memorable. It has themes that resonate with all ages and professions. The direction, performances, and script are about as perfect as they can be. The pacing is somewhat slow to begin, but when I was hooked, I was hooked! In terms of the impact it had around the world, the film created domestic and international impacts which is described in above review. 1939 was a gigantic year in film. The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind are flashier pictures, but do not forget about Capra’s tour-de-force in a career where he made many of those. It is and shall remain a very important movie.

My Grade: A-