Movie Monday: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is one of my all time favorite films. James Stewart gave a iconic performance in this Frank Capra movie so it only made sense to review this movie on the week of the Fourth of July holiday!
This film is full of impactful scenes and deep meanings. Like all Frank Capra movies, there is a deep sentiment of American pride laced within all of the actors lines. What we as an audience see and hear is the “American Dream” embodied in Mr. Smith.
Besides the inspiring plot of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (which we will continue reviewing momentarily), the cinematography in the scenes where Mr. Smith explores the city of Washington D.C. are beautiful! The historic monuments in D.C. are captured in stunning lighting and giving such respect with all of the camera angles. In real life, the monuments are just as stunning. So bravo to Frank Capra on documenting D.C. in such a wonderful way!
On another note, Mr. Smith walking through Washington D.C. is an important element to this film’s storyline. The monuments’ large appearance is supposed to show viewers how small Mr. Smith feels, and how important the responsibility he has to do the right thing. They are a constant reminder that the truth always wins.
In all of Frank Capra films we see a consistent theme of persistence in his protagonist characters. The urge to never give up seems to be something that Capra links to his idea of the “American Dream”. This provides all of us with a collection of endlessly inspiring characters and storylines. The idea that you should fight for what you believe in still serves as inspiration in all areas of life.
James Stewart gave one of his best performances in this role! Stewart was able to make the character of Mr. Smith both relatable and aspirational. Everyone wants to vote for a Mr. Smith type because they hope he will fight for them tirelessly.
I will leave you with this one last image of James Stewart and the Washington Monument. If you haven’t ever seen Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, I highly recommend watching it this Fourth of July holiday!
Much Love,
Sarah
