This is one of the movies in my top 10 list. It is a fantastic example of what HollyWood can produce. This movie excels at story telling, strong character development, and near perfect acting. This movie is incredibly educational for teaching kids/adults on the iner-workings of the United States Senate. There is one moment of suspense when one Smith's fellow Senator tries to kill himself so that he can avoid taking the rap for framing Smith. Over all, this is a perfect film for educators to show to their students who are learning about the U.S. Government. 5 out of 5
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Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Wonderful classic movie for the family.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 8 and Up
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
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Sexy stuff:
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Language:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
Parents need to know that this is a fine family movie with no inappropriate content. Younger kids may not be interested in the political storyline, but Stewart's performance as an impassioned patriot and the Washington D.C setting makes this an excellent choice for kids who are just beginning to learn about the workings of U.S. government.
Read our full review by Nell Minow
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about how Paine tells Smith he has to learn to compromise. Is that wrong? How could Smith tell that this was not compromise, but corruption? Watch the scene where the press meets the new Senator for the first time. People today often criticize the press for being unfair or too mean to politicians. Do you think they were unfair? Were they too mean? Why does the press like to make fun of politicians? What makes Saunders change her mind about Smith?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 9 and give itMy concerns are:
- Drinking, smoking, or drug use
- My highlights are:
- Educational
- Good role models
Absolutely amazing film that still delivers even though it is 70 years old.
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Ugh
So boring but i saw it when i was 8 but so boring
- I rate this title on for age 7 and give it
I recommend it to teachers or parent who want to teach children more about politics and the US government.
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Utterly timeless
James Stewart is incomparable in the quintessential "Gee, shucks" role, as a sweet but oblivious man unknowingly placed in the Senate simply to let other politicians continue doing their dirty work without distraction. However, when Stewart inevitably realizes this, he has to make a dangerous choice: does he turn a blind eye to the corruption of Washington or does he maintain his ideals to the end?
- I rate this title off for age 13 and give it
Horrific
- I rate this title on for age 8 and give it
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Ratings at a Glance
| 100% | of parents say there are good role models |
| 100% | of parents say it gives kids positive messages |
| 100% | of parents say it's educational |
| 100% | of parents say there's too much drinking, drugs, or smoking |
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