Congress in the Movies 1: ‘Mr. Smith Goes To Washington’

This classic 1939 film by director Frank Capra starring Jimmy Stewart is worthy of reflection, especially at a time when the Senate is considering eliminating the filibuster. It suggests Washington is corrupt, in the hands of special interests. Summary: “A naïve man is appointed to fill a vacancy in the United States Senate. His plans promptly collide with political corruption, but he doesn’t back down.” Watch now. Original Trailer.

“This film caused quite a stir in this town in 1939,” wrote Matt Slovick in The Washington Post. “The Washington Press Club sponsored a premiere at Constitution Hall that was attended by congressmen, Senators and Supreme Court justices. About halfway through the film, people started walking out. At another dinner, Capra was criticized for showing graft in the Senate. The Washington press corps, who didn’t like the way reporters were portrayed, joined in the attacks against Capra. But average Americans