This movie sends a very strong message to the American people, as not all politician are corrupt or on the take. It shows the true way how a democracy system should work here in the US. The political statements shown in this movie were attack when the film was released, as people thought of it as anti-American and pro-Communist for its portrayal of corruption in the American government. In my opinion this film shows the faults and positives of our political system. A film like this really can give the viewer of what the true democracy system feels like and shows it only takes the courage of one man to stand up against corruption. Mr. Smith is that man who is not a career politician, just a common man that bleeds red, white and blue. He has an idea that would benefit sociality as it will help kids stay out of trouble and become men. When he finds out about the graft scheme he stands tall and challenges the big political machine Taylor, with out fear like the other members of the hall. This shows the courage of a man standing by his self against the same members of his party. Mr. Smith stands his ground and keeps to his word to ensure that a "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth"Read full review
Jefferson Smith is the quintessential naïve, honest hero that Stewart played in his early years. Smith fills an unexpired US Senate seat as the result of a coin toss. Ignorant of the games that Washington plays, he assumes that that his job is to represent the folks at home passionately and honestly. Like Don Quixote, Smith tilts windmills: he stands up against the corrupt Senator Joseph Harrison Paine and wins. Cynical critics of Frank Capra derisively called his work “Capra-corn.” The key question to ask at the end of the movie is whether Smith is too simple minded and naïve to survive in the real world, or if the cynics are the fools for giving up on the honesty and faith that led the Founding Fathers to create the noble experiment which is America. Jean Arthur is a charm as the hard boiled blonde who is captivated by the innocent Smith and recaptures the faith in the goodness of people that she's lost in Washington. Capra movies are empowering. Like most Capra movies, "Mr. Smith" illustrates that it is ultimately we who are responsible for the world around us. The film won the Academy Award for Best Screenplay.Read full review
Mr Smith Goes to Washington is a classic because it's message is as relevant today as when it was made--maybe even more so! It definitely shows how the political meat grinder called Washington DC combined with an integrated media can quickly get people who sounded like they had great morals when they were elected to compromise their values and do things they once never dreamed they would do and surely wouldn't want the American people to know. On the other hand, it shows an inspiring look at what might happen if some of our leaders stood up for what they firmly believed was the right thing for the American people regardless of the personal cost to themselves. Very well directed, it still show what has made this country the best place in the world to live. Now if only we had a few more Mr. Smiths in Washington! Jimmy Stewart is as amazing in this film as he was in "It's a Wonderful Life," and the directing is possibly even better than the aforementioned classic. Great Film! Very Clean and Highly recommended!Read full review
I first saw this movie an an American Government class. The teacher described it as a very good depiction of the way that the congressional process works, so I didn't think that I would like it. It was a complete surprise when the movie turned out to be more of a drama than the dull government propaganda that we see so often. It depicted very clearly political corruption in its finest with a shadowing of government process and the effects that they both have on each other. All of this sat on the solid and incredible performance of Jimmy Stuart. I think that this film is one of his greatest performances to date. He actually makes boring things sound amazing. Combine that with the flare of old movies and the artistic simplicity in which it is done, and it creates a wonderful movie. I recommend this movie to anyone who is a fan of Jimmy Stuart. If you ever see this movie you will not be disappointed.Read full review
Classic Combination of Frank Capra and James Stewart which has stood the test of time for its compelling story. Jean Arthur is perfect as the scheming reporter won over by Jeff Smith's honesty and integrity. Claude Rains artfully portrays the flawed senior senator who became a puppet of the evil political boss. In a previous movie, "You Can't Take it With You," Edward Arnold portrayed Jimmy Stewart's loving dad, but now appears as his arch nemesis who almost crushes him in his long-reaching political talons.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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