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

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.

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