Review of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) by Allen B — 29 Nov 2010

Great on almost every level. Brilliant story, acting, direction, cinematography. The script is probably one of the best ever written, even though you know exactly how the film is going to play out within the first 20 minutes. It also features what is arguably one of the strongest female characters ever portrayed on film: an intelligent, fully realized figure who isn't "masculinized" to give the impression of strength and character or made to just be arm candy for our male protagonist to enjoy. They really don't make movies like this anymore.

I hadn't thought much of James Stewart before seeing this, but now, wow. He was the perfect person for the role: kind, caring, a bit naive. And the actor who plays the corrupt, disillusioned senator is brilliant, and his character is so interesting and well written.

And, of course, Stewart's secretary, played by Jean Arthur; a strong, spunky, independent woman whose character evolves in a way I wasn't expecting as the film goes along. I also liked Stewart's supposed love interest and what happens with that whole plot line. You really don't see stuff like that anymore. Why is beyond me.

The beginning is a bit silly, but once you get passed the set up, the film really takes off. It's so well structured, full of great themes that are still relevant today, and the final 20 minutes are just mind blowing. I actually didn't want it to end, and thought it could have gone another 10 minutes or so past the credits as it does leave a few things hanging. At two hours, this is quite the feat.

And the message of the film, wow. For a movie that came out right as WWII was starting, it's quite startling. Heck, it'd be pretty controversial if such a film came out today, let alone then.

Just, brilliant. A masterpiece of a film, of structure, of storytelling, of acting. Probably one of the best films I've ever seen. If you want to learn about great filmmaking, or you're tired of the crap they make nowadays and simply want to be provoked and entertained for two hours, watch this movie. A must see.