In Washington (1943) is a patriotic American drama set during the height of World War II. Produced as both entertainment and wartime propaganda, the film captures the essence of duty, sacrifice, and integrity within the heart of the U.S. capital. With its timely release, it offered audiences a powerful narrative reinforcing the ideals of democracy, courage, and national unity.
📽️ Overview Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows a group of political insiders, reporters, and idealistic newcomers navigating the complex and often morally grey corridors of power in Washington, D.C. The film weaves together themes of journalistic integrity, political corruption, loyalty, and the burden of leadership.
🕰️ Runtime: 1h 19min 🎞️ Released: 1943 🎟️ Genre: Drama / War / Political
📜 Plot Summary The movie begins with a young war veteran and journalist, Tom Howard, returning to Washington after being wounded on the European front. Determined to expose the inefficiencies and corruption he believes are holding back the war effort, Tom joins a reputable Washington newspaper. There, he is mentored by seasoned reporter Edna Marshall, who warns him that politics in Washington is not for the faint-hearted.
Tom soon discovers a network of backdoor deals between defense contractors and certain corrupt members of Congress. His investigations lead him to Senator Charles Brent, a patriotic lawmaker fighting to push through legislation that would reform the military procurement system. As Tom digs deeper, he must decide whether to publish information that could destroy political careers—or worse, hinder the nation's unity during wartime.
At the same time, a romantic subplot unfolds between Tom and Edna’s daughter Nancy Marshall, a Red Cross nurse recently returned from North Africa. Their relationship adds emotional depth to the otherwise tension-filled narrative.
As the story progresses, Tom becomes a reluctant hero. In the film’s climax, he delivers a passionate public testimony before a Senate hearing, revealing the corruption while defending those fighting for transparency. The film ends on a hopeful note, with reforms passing and unity restored in the nation's capital.
🎭 Cast 🎩 John Loder as Tom Howard – The idealistic war veteran-turned-journalist.
📰 Fay Bainter as Edna Marshall – A seasoned and ethical Washington correspondent.
💼 Raymond Massey as Senator Charles Brent – A principled senator fighting against war profiteering.
👩⚕️ Marsha Hunt as Nancy Marshall – A compassionate nurse and love interest to Tom.
📊 Gene Lockhart as Senator Claymore – A suspicious figure entangled in wartime profiteering.
📞 Edward Arnold as Newspaper Editor Clark – Tom’s boss who wrestles with censorship and duty.
🕵️ Marc Lawrence as Milo Grover – A shadowy lobbyist linked to defense contracts.
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