Review of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) by Four Star F — 13 Sep 2013

As both a political thriller and feel good movie this film cemented James Stewart as a great powerhouse. Furthermore, despite its age it acts as a timeless reminder of the evils of political machines. It makes us root for the underdog who always seems to overcome whatever the opposition and it is distinctively American.

It had a wonderful director in Frank Capra and a wonderful supporting cast including Jean Arthur, Claude Rains, Edward Arnold, and Thomas Mitchell who make the story all the more relatable . In one of his best performances, Jimmy Stewart is an idealistic, naive boy's troop leader named Jefferson Smith.

Believing he will be a pawn, a powerful man gets Smith a seat in the nation's Senate. However although he is out of place the patriotic Smith does his best to be worthy of his position. His actions soon find him face to face with the political machine that elected him.

With all odds and seemingly everyone against him, Smith makes one last monumental effort. With the help of his secretary (Jean Arthur), Smith fights to plead his case through a filibuster. Fatigued by so many hours of talking, Smith finally collapses but not before effectively succeeding at his task.

This movie is probably one of the most cheering ever and maybe Frank Capra's best.