Danielle Solzman noted
in her review, “While the film has beautifully aged, the same couldn’t be said
for its theatrical release in 1939. It
was slammed by many politicians.
Democratic Senate Majority Leader Alben W. Barkley wasn’t among the
fans. Nor was Joseph P. Kennedy, then
the American Ambassador to Great Britain.
He was ticked and afraid of how the USA would look to the outside world.”
Jefferson Smith, played
by James Stewart, is an optimistic senator from Montana. When Sam Foley dies in
office, Governor Hubert “Happy” Hopper, played by Guy Kibbee, needs to choose
who will replace Foley. His children want Smith to be the one since he is the
head of the Boy Rangers. The rest you can tell.
When Smith arrives in
Washington, Senator Joseph Paine, played by Claude Rains, hires him. Senator
Paine was also a friend of Smith’s father. Smith falls in love with Paine’s daughter,
Susan, played by Astrid Allwyn. Because of his personality and everything, the
Washington Press makes him into a joke. Things become ugly and after Paine’s
suggestion, Smith writes a bill with his secretary, Clarissa Saunders, played
by Jean Arthur. Clarissa is a Washington veteran so she has the required experience
in this field.
Solzman noted, “Sidney
Buchman–pre-blacklist–bases his screenplay on an unpublished story about
Senator Burton Wheeler (D-MT).” Once Frank Capra became the director of the
film, he wanted to hire Gary Cooper on the crew. Sadly, Cooper was not
available for the film. As a backup, Capra was able to sign James Stewart on
loan from MGM. Solzman noted, “In another universe, the film would have been a
sequel to Mr. Deeds Goes to Town. What a
sight that would have been!”
Solzman continued, “One
of the most impressive things I love about the film is the attention to detail
with recreating the United States Senate on camera. It’s more than just the Senate but offices,
monuments, etc. When you’re looking at
the chamber, you’re looking at a complete reproduction on the Columbia lot. It’s honestly amazing how authentic it is.”
One of the things that
the film does perfectly is how realistic the politicians are easily corrupted.
It’s completely wrong and one of the saddest parts when we look at American politics.
That might be the reason behind a lot of Washington politicians didn’t like the
film in 1939. Solzman noted, “This is why the Oscar-winning (Best Writing –
Original Story) film stands the test of time.” Jefferson Smith is a politician
that we don’t see anymore. That is why “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” is still
one of the best political films ever made.
If you haven’t seen
this film yet, why are you reading this review? You need to see this movie,
especially since it fits well with today. Go out and see this movie immediately
because it’s one of the best ever made. Everyone should see this, especially
with such memorable scenes, like the final sequence.
Happy Independence Day
everyone! I would suggest no one go out for the fireworks tonight because of
everything going on. If you do, then please stay safe. Check in next week for
the next review in “Dr. Dolittle Month.”
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