Mr Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
Jimmy Stewart’s Classic Film about Corruption in the Government
Aug 14, 2009
Mr Smith Goes to Washington is the amazing tale of one young man who stood up against corruption and was beaten down time and time again. It is the story of one man who fought for a lost cause, the only causes worth fighting for – the only causes worth dying for. Just as his father before him, Mr. Smith stands up for truth and is beaten down for his innocence and beliefs.
The Plot of Mr Smith Goes to Washington
Jefferson Smith, a newly appointed young Senator discovers his colleague and idol, Senator Paine, is corrupt and is framed for fraud for trying to uncover the corruption of the government.
In order to defend himself and save his honor, as well as to return honor to the great Senate of the United States of America, Smith begins a filibuster. He begins an endless speech about freedom and the constitution, in the hopes of redeeming himself and the Senate.
Jimmy Stewart Stars in Frank Capra's Masterpiece
Jimmy Stewart plays Jefferson Smith is the seemingly dim-witted Senator, who turns out to be sharper than his corrupt colleagues bargained for. Senator Paine was Smith’s father’s friend, although he becomes part of the corruption in the government and turns on Smith to save his own hide.
Jean Arthur plays Clarissa, Smith’s secretary and love interest. Clarissa is a strong willed, quick witted woman who falls and Smith’s boyish charms and helps him prepare for his filibuster. She helps him fight against Jim Taylor, the businessman pulling strings in the Senate in order to increase his cashflow.
Fighting Corruption in the Government
Jimmy Stewart’s standout performance alone is worth the viewing, but each character of the film is well acted and each has their own brilliant flair. Edward Arnold plays Jim Taylor like a stark, no-nonsense businessman, unwilling to budge an inch because it means he loses power. This David versus Goliath struggle is different from other portrayals, Smith fighting Taylor with words rather than stones, showing heart is more powerful than greed and that he will not stand for a corrupt government.
Conclusion
Much like other classic films, the plot and scenery of the film may seem simple and the special effects are non-existent, but there is a power in this film that modern movies fail to capture. The innocence of a young Senator hoping to make a difference in the world is still so applicable today, and Mr Smith Goes to Washington will speak to the hearts and souls of every viewer, not just the patriotic Americans.
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