Rent Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

A Classic. - Mr. Smith Goes to Washington review by CP Customer

A Most Excellent film.   The USA has changed in various ways since then, but clearly not in all !   Jimmy Stewart at his memorable early best.   Jean Arthur also fine ( and no surprise that she was able later to reach her magnificent best in Shane ).   

We did actually find the final 10 minutes to be quite confusing however.

American Classic - Mr. Smith Goes to Washington review by GI

This famous tale of political corruption is probably a film that all US senators should be made to watch before taking up their seats! It was certainly a controversial film back in 1939 where it was feared the USA maybe damaged by it's portrayal of the machinations of government and those that would subvert them in their own interest and it also has a big dig at the press who play along when directed by corporate blackmail. James Stewart in a scene stealing performance is the naïve Boy Scout leader Jefferson Smith and all round good guy who is selected to represent his state as senator. Those behind his selection, including his father's best friend played by Claude Rains, believe he will be easily controlled especially as they have plans for a big dam in the state which will make them all richer. But Jefferson proves to be no pushover once he cottons on to what is happening and he as a counter plan to build a camp for under privileged boys on the same land. But he hasn't prepared for the extent to which his character and life will be attacked. The film has a lot of humour especially in the first third of the film as it plays for laughs with Jefferson the classical fish out of water when he's thrust into the maelstrom of the political world but then the film settles into a compelling political drama that highlights the control of rich business over the elected officials. There's the necessary Hollywood romance thrown in with Jean Arthur as the worldly wise secretary who guides Jefferson through his troubles and falls for him in the process. Personally I find the film's ending a little anti-climactic as the bad guys don't get seen to get their comeuppance but this is small criticism. With a prestigious cast including Harry Carey and Thomas Mitchell this is a film that all cinephiles should ensure they see. It has themes that resonate very strongly today!

Lisa Simpson Outshines James Stewart - Mr. Smith Goes to Washington review by griggs

Frank Capra’s Me Smith Goes to Washington has long been heralded as a classic of American cinema, taking up spot 26 on the AFI 100 List. However, with time, the film's once-inspiring narrative has succumbed to a dated sentimentality that may not resonate with modern audiences. The film is often criticised for its overly sentimental and idealistic portrayal of politics. Capra's characteristic optimism is on full display, culminating in a happy ending that feels excessively simplistic, given the complexities of real-world politics. This idealism, perhaps uplifting during its time, now comes across as naive and unconvincing. You cannot help but draw comparisons to "The Simpsons" episode "Mr. Lisa Goes to Washington," which offers a far more satirical and nuanced take on the themes of political integrity and corruption. Unlike Capra's film, the episode balances humour with a biting critique of political systems, making it a more effective and entertaining watch for contemporary viewers. While "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" might have been revolutionary, it now seems more like a relic of a bygone era, hindered by its schmaltzy storytelling and an overly rosy resolution. Time has not been kind to this film, and its message feels lost amidst its saccharine execution. Time to take it off the AFI 100.