Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this classic gem from 1939 includes lots of smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars) consistent with the era and some drunkenness. Even though much of the movie takes place in Senate chambers, there are still a few violent moments including a gun shot, paper boys punched and nearly run down by goons, and the main character punching crooked reporters. Punching aside, the titular Mr. Smith is an otherwise great role model, holding onto his strong convictions even when it seems like everyone is against him. Kids will not only get to see the Lincoln Memorial but learn a bit about how the Senate operates and see a filibuster in action.
Sexual
Content
Flirting, declarations of love, and a drunken "let's get married."
Violence
A light shatters after a gun is fired and there's a struggle -- gun not shown. Jeff punches a bunch of crooked reporters. Mentions of past death and violence. In a montage, young boys distributing papers are hit by goons, a car with boys in it and a wagon carrying papers are hit by trucks on purpose, and marchers are hosed down by police.
Language
Just dated and innocent exclamations like, "Great saints!" "You're all wet," and "Stop having kittens."
Social
Behavior
Loaded with reminders of the importance of honesty, believing in yourself, standing up for what's right, knowing the difference between compromise and corruption, and that liberty and the freedom of speech are precious. It's also worth noting that African Americans are seen as porters and paper boys in this classic movie, but a black man is also seen standing in front of the Lincoln Memorial, hat off and deeply moved by where he is.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Lots of smoking -- cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and chewing tobacco -- by members of Congress and the press. Saunders gets drunk and almost gets married in the same night. More drinking in bars and in Senator Paine's home.
