Review: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

Kind hearted and sweet. For those jaded by American politics, this is a great movie to reawaken hope and faith. While it may seem a touch naïve at times, it has a very sincere heart.

Jimmy Stewart, one of America’s most enduringly lovable actors has just the right mix of wide-eyed enthusiasm and strength to make the character of Jefferson Smith believable. The acting, especially for a movie of this period, feels far more modern than might be expected. It feels far less a product of the stage than it does the movies.

Capra’s faith in the common man, kindness, and the systems of American government are well on display. In fact, this is one of the most amazing love letters to democracy and principle that you are ever likely to see. When Jefferson Smith, the title character, is recruited to take the place of a deceased Senator, he experiences the absolute worst that Washington DC and old machine politics had to offer; but this average American manages to forward his modest cause against the career politicians.

In these more cynical times, it might be tempting to feel superior or annoyed by the sweetness of the endeavor. Instead of indulging in such scorn, there is something to be gained from putting cynicism aside and getting lost in the charming, idyllic movie.

Some of what Capra’s Smith says still resonates as wonderful political rhetoric. When he begins work on a bill to start a national boys’ camp (and decides resolutely to refuse to ask the federal government to fund his vision), he tells his secretary what it is that drives him to make a difference. “Liberty is too precious a thing to be buried in books, Ms. Saunders. Men should hold it up in front of them every single day of their lives and say ‘I’m free to think and to speak.’”

The effect that Mr. Smith Goes to Washington has had on movies can only be appreciated once you’ve seen the movie for yourself. It practically defined the template for this entire species of political films. Even from a visual standpoint, it made its impact.

When Mr. Smith arrives in DC, he makes a side trip through the monuments and sites that make up our capital, finally arriving at the Lincoln Memorial. In seemingly every modern “average American vs. the Washington establishment” films made, homage is paid to this scene. Notably, it has never been equaled in emotional honesty and effectiveness.

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington acts as a nice little civics lesson, a still-useful introduction to the workings of the senate, and, most importantly, as an affirmation of faith in our political systems. It is an antidote to the disaffection that is bred by our disappointment in our leaders. Even though it was released in 1939, this remains a relevant film, and is suggested viewing for all Americans during election years.

A+