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
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
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Is it age appropriate?
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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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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was written by Nell Minow
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.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- 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?
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More on Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
What’s the Story?
Naive Jefferson Smith (Jimmy Stewart) is sent to Washington to serve the remaining term of a Senator who has died. At first, Smith is such a hopeless rube that he is an embarrassment. But a visit to the Lincoln memorial reminds him of what he hopes to accomplish, and he returns to the Senate to promote his dream, a national camp for boys. Smith winds up in a battle with corrupt senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), who sets out to destroy the young idealist and his dreams. Smith's friend Saunders (Jean Arthur) tells him to filibuster -- take the floor of the Senate and keep speaking -- while his mother and friends get out the real story. While Smith holds the floor, his Boy Rangers print up and try to distribute their own newspaper. But Taylor's henchmen stop them. After speaking for 23 hours, Smith sees that all of the letters and telegrams are against him. After an impassioned speech pointed at Paine, he vows to go on, but collapses from fatigue. Paine, overwhelmed with shame, runs into the cloakroom and tries to kill himself, confessing that he was the one who was corrupt.
Is It Any Good?
Frank Capra was to movies what Norman Rockwell was to illustration; he gave us a vision of our national identity that never ignored the challenges we face, although it was idealistic about our ability to meet them. This movie, made on the brink of World War II, was criticized for its portrayal of dishonesty and cynicism in Washington. But ultimately, it was recognized for the very patriotic and loyal statement that it is.
It is hard to imagine a time when Jimmy Stewart was not a major star, but this is the movie that made him one. He was a perfect choice for the shy young idealist. Capra selected cowboy actor Harry Carey to play the Vice President, who presides over the Senate during Smith's filibuster. His look of weatherbeaten integrity perfectly suited the part, and contrasted well with Rains' suave urbanity.
Movie Details
Studio: Columbia Tristar, Director: Frank Capra
Run time: 129 minutes
Theatrical release: 10/19/1939, DVD release: 02/02/2000
MPAA Rating: NR
Run time: 129 minutes
Theatrical release: 10/19/1939, DVD release: 02/02/2000
MPAA Rating: NR
Our Members Say
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Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title on for age 9 and give it
- My 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.
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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
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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.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
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I rate this title off for age 0 and give it
Horrific
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I rate this title on for age 0 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?
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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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