Review of Meet John Doe (1941) by Alan M — 23 Nov 2007

Meet John Doe is vintage Frank Capra, comparing favourably with his hugely popular 1930's masterpieces Mr. Deeds Goes to Town and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. It shares many of the same themes with its predecessors and vividly expresses them thanks to wonderful performances from screen favourites Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck. They are surrounded by an abundance of dubious and eccentric characters, providing a textured viewing experience that amounts to a powerful and unforgettable movie.

Gary Cooper walks the righteous path "From Hobo to Headline to Hero" amidst waves of cynicism and corruption, guided on his journey by the disillusioned Stanwyck in search of inspiration. However, Capra's trademark conventions remain steadfast and sure, anchored by the movie's beaming optimism that combats against the unscrupulous undercurrent, embodied by the menacing Edward Arnold.

Cooper is a vessel for Capra's idealistic propaganda in a world consumed by social turmoil and political opportunism. His vision is brimming with grand gestures of heartfelt sentimentality that ultimately amount to a simple plea for kindness and respect from all 'John Doe's'.