Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) by Frank Capra - MovieForToday

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

directed by: Frank Capra, year: 1939
actors: James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains, Edward Arnold

Description:

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington centers on idealistic Jefferson Smith (James Stewart), a naive but earnest new U.S. senator from a small town who is thrust into the brutal realities of national politics. Paired with principled aide Clarissa Saunders (Jean Arthur) and opposing machine politician Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), Smith fights for transparency, integrity and democratic ideals as smear campaigns, political scheming, and a dramatic filibuster test his faith in government. The film blends earnest patriotism with satire, delivering a stirring, timeless meditation on duty and democracy.

Keywords:

Oratory, Drama, Political Drama, Comedy, Satire, American Spirit, Political Corruption

What is the message of Mr. Smith going to Washington?

"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" conveys a powerful message about the importance of integrity, idealism, and the role of the individual in government. The film follows Jefferson Smith, an idealistic senator who confronts political corruption and fights for his beliefs in a flawed system. It highlights the struggle between moral principles and political machinations, emphasizing that one person's determination can inspire change. Ultimately, it advocates for civic engagement and the belief that democracy can be upheld by passionate individuals committed to doing what is right.

Is Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Based on a true story?

"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" is not based on a true story but is a fictional film directed by Frank Capra, released in 1939. The screenplay was written by Sidney Buchman and was inspired by the political climate of the time, particularly the challenges of corruption in government. The film follows a naïve senator, Jefferson Smith, played by Jimmy Stewart, as he fights against political corruption in Washington, D.C. While the characters and plot are fictional, the film reflects real societal issues and the idealism of American democracy.

What was the famous line from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington?

One of the most famous lines from "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" is when Jefferson Smith, played by James Stewart, passionately declares, "I won't yield! I won't yield!" during his filibuster. This line encapsulates the film's themes of integrity, democracy, and the struggle against corruption. The movie, directed by Frank Capra and released in 1939, highlights Smith's fight to preserve his ideals in the face of political machinations in the U.S. Senate.

How old was Jimmy Stewart in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington?

"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" was released on October 19, 1939. Jimmy Stewart, born on May 20, 1908, was 31 years old at the time of the film's release. He portrayed the character Jefferson Smith, a naive and idealistic junior senator. The film, directed by Frank Capra, is a significant political drama that explores themes of democracy and integrity.

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