Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a classic American motion picture that glorifies the values of the common individual fighting the forces of corruption and greed in American life. The film was released in 1939 and provided James Stewart with one of his greatest roles as the honorable, patriotic hero Jefferson Smith. Frank Capra was the director. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was one of several films directed by Capra in the 1930’s and 1940’s that celebrated the integrity and wholesome values of the average American.
Jefferson Smith is an idealistic young man who is given a temporary appointment as a United States senator to replace the current senator, who is ill. The immoral politicians who engineer Smith’s appointment expect Smith to follow their orders, but he stands up for what he believes is right and ethical, creating powerful enemies in Washington. The cynical press in the capital embarrasses Smith, and the corrupt politicians eventually frame him on false charges of misconduct. But Smith finally exposes the guilty individuals and becomes a hero. Stuart’s role as Smith helped advance Stewart’s almost mythic stature as a portrait of all-American decency.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington co-starred Jean Arthur, Claude Rains, and Edward Arnold. Supporting actors included Beulah Bondi, Harry Carey, Guy Kibbee, Thomas Mitchell, and Eugene Pallette.
See also Capra, Frank ; Stewart, James .
