Mr Smith Goes to Washington

Frank Capra’s controversial 1939 film “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” tells the story of a young, naïve and inexperienced politician who is brought to Washington to replace the recently-deceased fictional Senator Samuel Foley. The film has a number of themes, but one that stands out beyond most is the idea that the press controls the public’s opinion of a politician. They can make one out to be either a dedicated, hard-working public servant …

…a politician. However, Jim Taylor’s men soon discover what is happening and physically force the boys to stop the distribution. In the end, Paine reveals that he is responsible for Smith’s ignominy and demands his own expulsion. The press is seen as an organization that has control over what people think of the Senators. Until Jeff’s own press takes over, Jim Taylor’s has complete control over the way politicians are seen. (819)