Mr Smith Goes To Washington Essay

In the 1939 film, Mr.Smith Goes to Washington, the filmmaker gives a distinct contrast between the idealized and assumed morality of American patriotism and the reality of the corruption that can be found within the political machines of the government. As seen in this film, the human desire for money and power is often a drive that individuals within the government cannot help but clasp onto. For example, Clarissa Saunders proclaims that she is only in her job for “money and a new suit of clothes,” Joseph Paine elects Smith as a way to remain in control of the Senate and to remain connected to the power source of Jim Taylor, and the political machine Jim Taylor attempts to influence Senate to push a bill through that will continue to increase the power of his own monopoly. However, when Jefferson

Smith enters the scene, he does not have such cravings for wealth and political authority and therefore contrasts greatly with those around him. Even though Smith knows little about American politics and how to even carry out his duties as a Senator, what sticks out the most is his patriotism and humility. Even in the first few moments of arriving at Washington, Smith is in awe of his surroundings and the historical atmosphere around him.

By being in Washington, he feels a strong sense to emulate the historical value to fight for and help the American people. Smith, therefore, immediately begins writing a bill for a National Boys Camp to benefit boys across the country to learn simple life skills. By doing so, Smith does not simply look out for his own needs (e.g. his own wealth and power), but for the needs of others. Therefore, such characteristics of Smith are the complete opposite of those around him. As a result, Smith becomes are victim to the abuse of power by his fellow senator Joseph Paine and the political machine of Jim Taylor. Smith and his bill is seen as a threat and he is consequently wrongfully accused in an effort by Taylor and Paine to not lose their deathly grip on their selfish control. However, in the end, Paine cannot continue to live his life of selfish advancement and cannot bare to see Smith suffer any longer. As a way to pacify Smith’s sufferings and his own internal sufferings, Paine ends up confessing his part in pushing the graft of the

bill. In the end, this film shows that even though it is impossible for completely get rid of corruption within our political system, the example of Smith demonstrates the need to recognize and combat the deviation away from American patriotism and honesty. Therefore, I believe that the filmmaker was incredibly successful in making us question why the actions of Smith seen so praiseworthy and humble. By watching this film, one cannot help but ask why this type of morality seems to no longer be expected as an essential element within our government.