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Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

Name: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
Director: Frank Capra
Released: 1939
Duration: 130 min

Representation Score

2.5/10

Limited

1939

Director

Frank Capra

Runtime

130 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a key example of populist cinema that highlights the conflict between individuals and systemic corruption. The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of capable female characters who navigate male-dominated political environments. However, the film lacks modern markers of diversity. The cast is almost entirely white, and there is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities. Overall, the film scores moderately by challenging institutional corruption and political hierarchies, despite operating within a traditional, non-diverse demographic framework.

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Category Breakdown

Does Mr. Smith Goes to Washington have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships, reflecting a strictly heterosexual society typical of the 1939 era.

How does Mr. Smith Goes to Washington portray gender?

Good

Clarissa Saunders is a strong female character who mentors Smith and demonstrates significant intellectual authority. She navigates male-dominated political spheres effectively.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Mr. Smith Goes to Washington?

Minimal

The cast is primarily white and Anglo-Saxon, which aligns with the political climate of 1939. There is no racial or ethnic diversity among the main characters.

How does Mr. Smith Goes to Washington represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film critiques corrupt capitalist systems and predatory land-grabbing practices. It defends democratic principles against a corrupt political machine.

Does Mr. Smith Goes to Washington include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature characters with disabilities as central to the narrative.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender hierarchies through strong female characters.
Critiques corrupt political machines and predatory capitalist structures.
Highlights individual virtue and ability to act against systemic decay.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity among the main characters.
Does not include any LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight characters.
Does not feature characters with disabilities as part of the central story.

Official Synopsis

After the death of a United States Senator, the idealistic Jefferson Smith is appointed as his replacement in Washington. The naive and earnest new senator soon finds himself battling political corruption.

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