Watch Mr. Deeds Goes to Town

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town is a classic comedy-drama film from 1936 that tells the story of a small-town poet named Longfellow Deeds (played by Gary Cooper) who inherits a massive fortune from a long-lost uncle. Deeds, who is content with his simple life and modest means, suddenly finds himself thrust into the upper echelons of society and the scrutiny of the media.

As he makes his way to New York City to claim his inheritance, Deeds encounters a cynical journalist named Babe Bennett (played by Jean Arthur) who sees him as the perfect subject for a series of sensational stories. In her attempts to get to know Deeds and expose his naivete, Babe finds herself drawn to the earnest and kind-hearted poet, and begins to question her own motives.

Once in New York, Deeds is beset by a parade of grasping relatives, greedy lawyers and con artists who all want a piece of his fortune. Despite his simplicity and lack of sophistication, he proves to be shrewd and savvy in business, quickly turning the tables on those who seek to take advantage of him.

Along the way, Deeds finds himself involved in a number of comedic misadventures, from a wild car chase through the streets of New York to a chaotic meeting with the board of The Consolidated Companies, the business empire left to him by his uncle. In the end, Deeds proves himself to be a man of principle and kindness, challenging the corrupt forces that seek to exploit him and winning the hearts of those around him.

Gary Cooper gives a charming and endearing performance as the sweet-hearted Longfellow Deeds, capturing both his wide-eyed innocence and his steely resolve when faced with adversity. Jean Arthur is equally delightful as Babe Bennett, her quick wit and dry sarcasm providing a perfect foil to Deeds's more earnest demeanor. George Bancroft also shines as the manipulative corporate tycoon who seeks to use Deeds's inheritance for his own greedy ends.

The film was directed by Frank Capra, who was known for his ability to blend humor and sentimentality in a way that resonated deeply with audiences. Mr. Deeds Goes to Town was no exception, and the film was a commercial and critical success upon its release, earning four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Despite being over 80 years old, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town remains a charming and entertaining film that speaks to the timeless themes of wealth, power, and social class. Through its blend of comedy and drama, it offers a poignant commentary on the corrupting influence of money, while also celebrating the simple virtues of kindness, generosity, and compassion. It is a classic example of Hollywood at its best, and a must-see for film lovers of all ages.

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town is a 1936 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.