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Remembering Jimmy Stewart and the role that made him a star, "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington"

James Stewart became a top leading man in Frank Capra's 1939 political comedy-drama "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington." Jimmy was perfect for the role of Jefferson Smith, an idealistic guy who becomes a senator, and has to face the wolves of Washington, DC! Sentimental, for sure. Still a powerful film with a timely message, an incredible cast, especially Stewart, who shines. My look here at "Mr. Smith":

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by Anonymousreply 12July 3, 2025 1:21 PM

SPOILER:

MAJOR SPOILER

None of the current Republicans have the integrity to kill themselves.

by Anonymousreply 1July 3, 2025 1:14 AM

Ain't that the truth... Also, "Mr. Smith" has been on Tubi and will also be on TCM later this month...

by Anonymousreply 2July 3, 2025 1:19 AM

It’s an absolutely beautiful, even devastating film. One of the few that deserves the “classic” label. It resonates today, perhaps more than when it premiered.

And Jean Arthur is beguiling. For a lesbian.

by Anonymousreply 3July 3, 2025 1:26 AM

This is a good movie but as far as Capra goes Meet John Doe addresses the same general themes better.

by Anonymousreply 4July 3, 2025 1:26 AM

I loved this movie when I first saw it on TV as a teenager. I watched it a couple of years ago and I just found it kind of impossible. It doesn't make a lot of sense that Jeff Smith is holding up an urgent relief bill for whatever it is he wants (a boys' camp?) I was surprised I didn't like Claude Rains's performance. Jeff Smith is what? Late 20's, or 30? He's so worshipful of Paine. He sometimes acts like he's 14. I find it sad that I can't watch some of these Capra films any more and enjoy them like I once did.

by Anonymousreply 5July 3, 2025 1:33 AM

I only wish there were current congressfolk with that much personal integrity.

Deep sigh.

by Anonymousreply 6July 3, 2025 2:37 AM

“I never watched Mr. Smith Goes to Washington until 2025 for evolving reasons.” Oy!

Here we go again…, = I’ve never seen this until now, but please read my insightful review filled with info known to any actual moviegoer, cobbled from internet searches

by Anonymousreply 7July 3, 2025 7:02 AM

Reply 7. I am making a point this year to watch movies I've never seen before, for various reasons. And each time, I explain why, as the reasons differ. Also, I watch each movie several times, while I'm writing, and to make screenshots. Also, I double check facts about the movie through reputable sources. And I've been watching classic movies since I was junior high age and I'm 65 now. Sorry that's not good enough for you.

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by Anonymousreply 8July 3, 2025 9:51 AM

None of which background you’ve actually shared in these “reviews.” Perhaps you can have an explanation of your method and style at the top of your home page. As is, much of the info you share in reviews is no better than random DL movie fan posts.

by Anonymousreply 9July 3, 2025 10:19 AM

Why would anyone think you have to be into police to watch Mr. Smith? Honest question. Does that mean you never saw Manchurian Candidate, All the President’s Men or a hundred other classic political movies. Makes no sense to this movie fan.

by Anonymousreply 10July 3, 2025 10:22 AM

*politics

by Anonymousreply 11July 3, 2025 11:29 AM

Over 85 years later, and here we are...

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by Anonymousreply 12July 3, 2025 1:21 PM
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