Movie Monday: Meet John Doe (1941)

Recently, I watched the film Meet John Doe for the first time and it instantly became one of my favorites! Plus, can you ever really go wrong with an inspirational Frank Capra film? Let’s review this classic!

I find that Frank Capra films are chock full of symbolism and inspiration. Between Mr. Deeds Goes to Town and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Capra was never short of holding the “American Dream” in high esteem. Something about this film in particular, however, shows just how important the people are. The collective empowerment of how when looking out for one another you can really make a wonderful impact is one of the best aspects of Meet John Doe.

The whole idea that an ordinary man can inspire the masses to make a difference is what seems Frank Capra believed makes America different from the rest of the world. I myself find this to be such an inspiring and patriotic film. In my mind, John Doe is a sort of Braveheart type character where he believes so much in an ideal that he is willing to give everything up for it.

The amazing thing about Meet John Doe is that while it is inspirational it also gives you a pretty realistic view on what the inner workings of politics really are. This film shows how some (if not most) of what happens in the political scene is fabricated by a few at the top. Exposing these kinds of truths in a film that debuted in 1941 just really displays how politics really haven’t changed.

Of course, it wouldn’t be the same if there wasn’t a love story involved. Meet John Doe is layered with sweet moment between Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck. They are truly an underrated Hollywood film couple and play off one another beautifully. Cooper seems like the “all-American” type of guy and Stanwyck comes across as an independent woman with her mind. When these two come together, however, they make a truly beautiful couple.

If you haven’t seen Meet John Doe before now I highly suggest you do! Frank Capra never disappoints, but this film is hands down one of his best! The casting was spot on and the plot is unforgettable.

Much Love,

Sarah