The extraordinary director, Frank Capra, thought it was necessary to shine a light on the powerful press, their ability to share half-truth articles and take down people who often did not deserve their wrath of lies. He gave glimpses of their hounding “newsworthy” people and glaringly presenting out-of-control headlines. It was blatant…cruel…and had the ability to destroy the innocent. This was in 1936, but it could easily be a theme for any movie in 2024. Nothing has changed for the better and within Capra-land, belligerent, mean, derisive behavior has only gotten worse. Many in power or seeking power only see the worst-case scenarios possible. They miss what is right in front of them. They don’t think about what could be possible if we all begin from a place of shared humanity and goodness. This is because salacious stories sell, and that’s the bottom line. But what happens when a basically good man comes along, inherits a fortune he does not want, and decides to help those around him who are down on their luck? Is he considered a do-gooder, a yokel, or “pixilated?” This is the framework for the humorous, comedic saga of MR. DEEDS GOES TO TOWN.
Gary Cooper was the only actor Capra wanted to play Longfellow Deeds. He believed Cooper’s face reeked of truth and honesty. Jean Arthur was chosen at the last moment to portray Louise “Babe” Bennett, his supposed “damsel in distress.” Their relationship began with a huge whopper of a lie, but who could resist the small-town charms of a greeting card, tuba-playing, twenty-million-dollar man? In today’s cost of living exchange that would be equal to almost $500 million. Holy cow. This could really change a person.
Babe never had a chance against Deed’s high-standard heart. Filming this movie was difficult for Jean. She would always throw up before coming on the set. Even though she was an experienced, talented actress from IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT with Clark Gable, she was still very insecure. It was said that Gary made her feel more relaxed as time went on with his extremely laid-back habits. He could fall asleep in the middle of the floor during any scene with everyone rushing around to reset.
MR. DEEDS GOES TO TOWN won Capra his second, Best Director Oscar. He was considered Hollywood gold since he received a third directing Oscar two years later. (Three Oscars within five years.) This allowed him to have a huge budget of $800,000. It was an unheard-of amount for a film in those days.
What I loved about MDGTT was the thoughtfulness of the story. It put our mixed-up, upside-down perspective in full view for all to see. It allowed a glimmer of what some consider important within our society. Interestingly enough branded Mr. Deeds as the “Cinderella man.” This is fascinating since some politicians do the exact same thing today. Hmmm. When will they ever learn?
MR. DEEDS GOES TO TOWN explores the hypocrisy of those in charge. It is a satirical, fresh look at our values then and now. It offers stellar performances that gives us the opportunity to question what is the right thing to do. It is a brilliant Capra classic that has served us food for thought for over eighty years. It is available to stream on TCM.
