Mr. Smith Goes to Washington




Either I'm dead right, or I'm crazy!

Perhaps a little too honest, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was ironically protested by politicians in the United States for its liberal use of corruption, but banned outright in parts of Europe because of its strong message of democracy.

Mr. Smith (James Stewart) is a naive Boy Scout type of guy who gets wide eyed at anything that fuels his patriotic passions. He's popular with the people and becomes a natural choice for office after the death of a Senator. On arriving in Washington, he's held smitten with the sights, but finds extensive corruption in the Senate. Even his role model, fellow Senator Paine (Claude Rains), is involved in a dishonest scheme. Smith fits in about as well as a fish out of water, though he gains the help of his cynical secretary, Saunders (Jean Arthur).

In more than one way, Frank Capra remains the greatest sentimental propagandist. Perhaps it takes an immigrant like Capra to see America in ways that usually are taken for granted. The complete innocence and grandeur of America is perfectly seen through Smith's eyes. His ideals inspire those around him and his battle between the little guy and the evil political machine is timeless, utilizing all of Capra's regular elements to spectacular results. Smith is his archetypical hero, and Saunders is his world-weary love interest who sees something in him.

Capra's feel good vibes aren't for everyone. Sure, sometimes it gets a little too much, but that's really where Mr. Smith Goes to Washington's charm is. Every time Smith gets that dreamy look in his eyes when he describes something, it's hard not to get swept away along with him. Everything works so well together, making for a final product that's hard not to be moved by. That's even forgiving the silly "punching" scene.

The acting nominations that this film received are just a hint at some of the fine performances. With the likes of Claude Rains' conflicted Senator Paine, Harry Carey's amusing judge and Thomas Mitchell's typical reporter, it's hard to go wrong. And then there's James Stewart, who makes Smith work so well, even despite all the reasons why he shouldn't. He and Jean Arthur work well together, making for a sweet and altogether tender relationship.

This is not some boring politics lesson, but a frequently humorous and touching examination that will be relevant as long as there are governments and politics.



-The Gnome