I've usually enjoyed Van Johnson and Patricia Neal, but in the case of Johnson I tend to think of him in light-hearted comedies or musicals. So, when I sat down to view this film, I wasn't expecting a whole lot, since it was clear it was a drama. In fact, I expected to turn it off after a few minutes. Well, to my surprise, Van Johnson turns in a solid performance as an idealistic congressman who votes contrary to what his constituents may want. Patricia Neal is also very fine as the reporter. Of course, as must happen in movies from the era, they fall in love but are forced apart when Johnson realizes Neal is a colleague of a muck-raking politician...or, was. One other performance of note here is Louis Calhern. Also of note, many are scenes are actually filmed in the Capitol building! The only thing I found disappointing was how quickly the film ended, of course with Johnson and Neal living happily ever after. Did Johnson win reelection? We'll never know. It all wrapped up too suddenly. Aside from the ending, however, this was a very good film.
Review of Washington Story
