Review of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) by Gavin S — 27 Oct 2012
This one established Jimmy Stewart as one of the great leading men of his day. Directed by the great Frank Capra, this is a look at how lobbyists/corruption and payoffs ruined the very nature of American Democracy.
It was released 73 years ago, and I think it might be just as relevant today. Call me simplistic, naive, idealistic, whatever words you like, but don't pretend this piece of fiction is all that far off from the reality in some instances (sadly).
A fantastic performance by Jimmy Stewart as the young idealistic Jefferson Smith, appointed to Senate and expected to fall in line and do what he's told or face the consequences. Terrific support from Jean Arthur as his cynical secretary, Thomas Mitchell as the veteran newspaperman, and Claude Rains as the senior Senator an pseudo-father figure to Stewart's Mr.
Smith. Essential, then and now. A true American classic.
This review of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) was written by Gavin S on 27 Oct 2012.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington has generally received very positive reviews.
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