In 2014, it is very common to see shows about political corruption such as Scandal and House of Cards. But it wasn't the first. In 1939, a director named Frank Capra made a film called Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. It was one of the first political comedy-dramas of its time. The film illustrates political corruption specifically in Congress, which has never been done before. The film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was made in 1939, but Franco's depiction of America has similarities to today's society. Franco depicts different factors of America. One thing he describes a lot is the American government. It shows that political figures only care about themselves and base their decisions on what benefits them. This is shown throughout the film, particularly at the beginning of the film, when Hopper, the governor of an unknown state, must choose a new United States senator. Hopper flips a coin to choose between Jim Taylor and Henry Hill. Instead, he landed in a newspaper with an article about Jefferson Smith. He then realized that Smith would be easier to influence and vote his way. This hasn't changed at all in America. In 2014, political figures still choose people who will support them and who share the same beliefs. The only difference is that today most Americans know more about politics and if they nominate someone who doesn't have the qualifications, the public will voice their opinion. Another thing that Franco describes about America in 1939 is that anything can happen, anyone can succeed. This is seen when Smith becomes a senator. He had the odds stacked against him, but Smith believed he could be a good senator and he succeeded. Throughout the film, other politicians try to take advantage of him, but he stayed strong and did what he...... middle of paper...... habit. Corruption in politics is common and will continue to occur. The media plays an important role in politics. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is an illustration of this. In the film, the newspaper was controlled by Taylor and his political machine. Because of this, the newspaper wrote negative things about Smith and tarnished his reputation in Washington. He was frustrated because the paper was making it out to be a joke and people in Washington believed him. This also influences the passage of his bill in the Senate. Saunders decided that Smith should call a filibuster regarding the bill and attempt to influence votes. The presenter was not specific in his description of a filibuster because he believes it only blocks a vote. Saunders was not entirely correct because he talks about passing through the Senate but it must also go through the House of Representatives..