Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Boy Scout becomes Senator, fights corruption by talking really, really loudly for a super long time until everyone magically agrees with him.

🍿 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Appointment and Arrival in Washington

When a U.S. Senator unexpectedly passes away, the governor of his state, Hubert Hopper, must appoint a replacement. Under pressure from political boss Jim Taylor, Hopper initially considers a puppet candidate. However, due to popular demand and a touch of serendipity, Jefferson Smith, the idealistic leader of the Boy Rangers, is chosen. Smith’s naiveté is seen as controllable, making him an easy pawn for Taylor’s schemes.

Ideals Meet Reality

Smith arrives in Washington, D.C., filled with awe and admiration for the nation’s monuments and democratic ideals. He is mentored by Senator Joseph Paine, a respected figure and old friend of Smith’s late father. Paine encourages Smith to propose a bill. Smith’s proposal is for a national boys’ camp, but it clashes with a corrupt land deal involving a dam project orchestrated by Taylor and supported by Paine, who has compromised his ideals over time.

Framed and Fighting Back

When Smith’s plan threatens Taylor’s dam project, Taylor and Paine conspire to discredit him. Smith is falsely accused of profiting from his proposed campsite, using fabricated evidence. Shocked by the betrayal and disillusioned, Smith initially retreats. However, his chief of staff, Clarissa Saunders, a cynical but ultimately principled woman, convinces him to fight back and expose the corruption.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jefferson Smith (James Stewart): An idealistic and naive Boy Rangers leader appointed to the U.S. Senate who bravely fights against corruption.
• Saunders (Jean Arthur): A cynical yet ultimately supportive secretary who guides Smith through the corrupt political landscape.
• Senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains): A respected senator and Smith’s childhood hero, who is secretly entangled in a corrupt scheme.
• Jim Taylor (Edward Arnold): A powerful and ruthless political boss who manipulates events to further his own financial interests.
• Governor Hopper (Guy Kibbee): The spineless governor easily influenced by Jim Taylor who appoints Jefferson Smith to the senate.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Jefferson Smith: “I wouldn’t give you two cents for all your fancy rules if, behind them, they didn’t have a little bit of plain, ordinary, everyday kindness and a little looking out for the other fella, too.” – Smith passionately defends his belief in basic human decency over political maneuvering.
• Saunders: “Lost causes are the only ones worth fighting for.” – Saunders, initially cynical, inspires Smith to continue his fight against corruption, highlighting the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when the odds are stacked against you.
• Jefferson Smith: “You think I’m licked. You all think I’m licked. Well, I’m not licked. I’m going to stay right here and fight for this lost cause.” – Smith declares his unwavering resolve to continue the filibuster and expose the truth.
• Saunders: “The only causes worth fighting for are lost causes.” – Saunders is a jaded yet witty women, who is trying to show Smith to not trust anyone around you.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,900,000
• Domestic Gross: $144,738
• Worldwide Gross: $146,123

💥 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely swept away by this movie! It’s so inspiring to see someone fight for what’s right, even when everyone is against them. The filibuster scene was incredible; I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. It’s a reminder that one person can make a difference.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic American cinema”
  • “Individuals interested in political dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate uplifting stories of idealism and integrity”
  • “Viewers interested in exploring themes of corruption and justice”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief depictions of violence”
  • “Themes of political corruption”
  • “Some potentially upsetting scenes involving betrayal and injustice”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Capra’s masterful blend of idealism and political reality remains powerful. Stewart’s performance is iconic, capturing both the naivety and the unwavering conviction of a man fighting for his beliefs. A timeless classic that resonates even more deeply today.
• Variety: “A stirring drama that holds up remarkably well. While some may find the ending overly sentimental, the film’s exploration of corruption and the power of the individual is undeniably compelling. The courtroom scenes are particularly gripping.

Audience Reactions

The filibuster scene was incredibly powerful and emotional!: Viewers often praise the film’s inspiring message and James Stewart’s unforgettable performance.

Overall Consensus: A beloved classic praised for its idealism, powerful performances, and enduring message of hope and fighting for justice.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Writing, Original Story)- 1940

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The U.S. Senate chamber was meticulously recreated on a soundstage at Columbia Pictures because filming was not permitted in the actual Senate.”
• “Frank Capra faced significant backlash for portraying U.S. politicians as corrupt, with some critics accusing the film of being anti-American.”
• “James Stewart prepared for the filibuster scene by using bicarbonate of soda to dry out his throat, which added authenticity to his character’s exhaustion.”
• “During the filibuster scene, Senator Smith reads from the Constitution and Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the importance of these documents in American ideals.”

🖥️ How to Watch Mr. Smith Goes to Washington?

Currently, ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington’ can be streamed on platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV where you can rent or purchase the film. Check local listings as it is also broadcast occasionally on classic movie channels. Physical copies (DVD and Blu-ray) are available through major retailers like Amazon and Walmart, offering an option for those who prefer owning the movie.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, you might like these similar films:

• All the President’s Men (1976): Both films explore the theme of uncovering corruption within the government and the media’s role in exposing the truth.
• The Candidate (1972): This film examines the compromises and challenges faced by an idealistic young politician during a Senate campaign.
• The Best Man (1964): This film revolves around political ambitions, strategy, and morality during a presidential nomination process, highlighting the darker side of political campaigns.
• Lincoln (2012): Chronicles Abraham Lincoln’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, highlighting the political maneuvering and moral choices involved.

🛒 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Related Products

• Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: A meticulously restored Blu-ray edition of the film with insightful bonus content, including documentaries and essays.
• James Stewart: His Life and Films: A biography exploring James Stewart’s life and career, including in-depth analysis of his iconic role in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
• Senate Mock Session Kit: A board game where players debate bills, filibuster, and navigate the challenges of the U.S. Senate.
• Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Movie Poster: A high-quality reprint of the original movie poster, perfect for decorating a home theater or office.

🎧 Soundtrack

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “End Titles” – performed by Dimitri Tiomkin
• “Main Title” – performed by Dimitri Tiomkin

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Nine Movies That Make Men Cry

Prepare to get emotional! This video dives into the reasons why ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington’ and other classic films have the power to bring tears to our eyes. Join the discussion and share your own thoughts on the cinematic moments that touch the deepest parts of our hearts.

Washington, D.C. in 1939 – Restored Footage

Step back in time with this incredible restored footage! Witness the bustling streets of Washington D.C. in 1939, used as the backdrop for the iconic scenes of ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.’ It’s a fascinating journey into the history and artistry behind this beloved film.

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