So This Is Washington

Directed by Ray McCarey and released in 1943, So This Is Washington is an interesting amalgamation of comedy and political satire that has been described as an 'excellent piece of classic cinema'. The film successfully gathers onboard actors Chester Lauck, Norris Goff, and Alan Mowbray to deliver an engaging plot that traverses through humor, wit, and the twist of events in the world of politics.

In the movie, Chester Lauck and Norris Goff play the beloved characters 'Lum and Abner' respectively, whom they popularized on their radio show. These two characters run a general store in a small town named Pine Ridge, Arkansas. The film makes use of their characteristic comic banter, wit, and charm as they embark on an engaging adventure.

When the quiet life in Pine Ridge is disrupted by the World War II, Lum stumbles upon a wartime contest pressed by the government that encourages the citizens to present innovations that can aid the war effort. Lum, who has accidentally developed a synthetic rubber while working on his failed invention of a "half-sole" for a shoe, decides to participate in the contest. Smelling an opportunity for fame and fortune, the duo — Lum and Abner — pack their bags for Washington D.C., only to find themselves in a series of mishaps, mistaken identities, and unavoidable conflicts with bureaucrats, with their patent application dangerously hanging in balance. While this gives rise to situations that have the audiences in fits of laughter, it also drives the storyline forward in an unexpected manner.

The duo's innocent ignorance of the power plays and political manoeuvrings at Washington forms the crux of the narrative. It leads to multiple light-hearted moments and amusing engagements, while succinctly delivering a commentary on the maze of bureaucracy and urgency in the times of war. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of Washington politics. However, it does so with a soft touch, keeping humor at the forefront. Despite being light-hearted and comical throughout, the film doesn't let the audience lose sight of the struggles and the ambition of Lum and Abner, keeping viewers hooked and vested in their journey.

Alan Mowbray stars as a struggling British actor in the same boarding house as Lum and Abner in Washington. His character provides an additional layer of comedy, bringing in international perspectives, disgruntlements of artists, and demonstrating how politics can infiltrate every aspect of life, even the world of a travelling actor. His interactions and exchanges with the leading characters, as well as with other Washington denizens, enriches the amusing dynamics of the plot.

So This Is Washington is essentially a slice-of-life war time comedy that brings a humorous yet sharp overview of the government system. The film's portrayal of the civilian contribution to the WWII effort also adds a layer of patriotic sentiment. The film cleverly weaves in elements of satire and social commentary while maintaining a light and humorous tone throughout, making it an enjoyable watch.

The characters in this film are effortlessly portrayed by the actors, especially Chester Lauck and Norris Goff, whose on-screen camaraderie and comic timing are one of the primary highlights of the movie. Alan Mowbray also does a commendable job with his character, and his interactions with the lead pair add a touch of sparkle to the overall plot.

Even though the movie is set in the time of World War II, the themes are timeless, touching upon ambition, friendship, patriotism, and the often daunting journey of the 'little guy' in a big world.

In conclusion, So This Is Washington provides an entertaining combination of comedy, political satire, and some good old fashioned Hollywood charm. It is an engaging spectacle of a classic era, and a testament to an innovative blend of comedy and politics in a film. The performances of the lead actors and the unconventionally light take on a grave subject - war, ultimately made it a memorable, thought-provoking, and enjoyable movie.