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IMDb rating
8.1
Critic rating Average critic rating
10.0

Reviews

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kasperlovborg
Kasper Løvborg
rated 9

One of the essential James Stewart roles, and Frank Capra at his best. One might have serious doubts that a guy addressing the Senate for most of the movie's running time would grow less than compelling but that's not at all the case!

4 years ago
david821
Critic David Parkinson
rated 10

Cast for the hesitant naivete that distinguished him from Gary Cooper's folksy decency, Stewart's passage from idealism to harsh-won wisdom was not only credible, but also deeply moving...

Read full review at Empire

Cast & Crew

Frank Capra
Director
Byron Foulger
As Hopper's Secretary (uncredited)
Frank O'Connor
As Senator Alfred (uncredited)
Wade Boteler
As Family Man (uncredited)
George Chandler
As Reporter (uncredited)
Pierre Watkin
As Senator Barnes
Larry Steers
As Committeeman (uncredited)
Milton Kibbee
As Senate Reporter (uncredited)

Frequently asked questions

What is Mr. Smith Goes to Washington about? Toggle content

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington tells the story of Jefferson Smith, a naive and idealistic leader of the Boy Rangers, who is appointed to replace a deceased U.S. Senator. Upon his arrival in Washington, he discovers corruption and shortcomings in the political process, leading to a conflict with the state political boss. With the help of his secretary, Clarissa Saunders, Smith proposes a bill to authorize a federal government loan to buy land for a national boys' camp. However, the proposed campsite is part of a dam-building graft scheme supported by Senator Joseph Paine, who betrays Smith by accusing him of trying to profit from the bill. Smith launches a filibuster to postpone the appropriations bill and prove his innocence but faces opposition from powerful politicians and the press. Will Smith be able to expose the corruption and clear his name?

Where can I stream Mr. Smith Goes to Washington? Toggle content

You can stream Mr. Smith Goes to Washington on: Apple TV Amazon Store Rakuten TV Sky Store

What movies are similar to Mr. Smith Goes to Washington? Toggle content

Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington include Manhattan Love Song, Follow the Leader, Klondike Annie, The Little Princess, Pygmalion, Up in the Air.

When was Mr. Smith Goes to Washington released in theaters? Toggle content

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was released in theaters on May 3, 1940.