Meet John Doe

Meet John Doe (1941)

  • 88% of critics liked it
    (17 reviews)

  • 81% of users liked it
    (4,273 ratings)

The first of director Frank Capra's independent productions (in partnership with Robert Riskin), Meet John Doe begins with the end of reporter Ann Mitchell's (Barbara Stanwyck) job. Fired as part of a downsizing move, she ends her last column with an imaginary letter written by "John Doe." Angered… More

Play Trailer

Unrated, 2 hr. 3 min.
Directed By
Frank Capra
Written By
Richard Connell, Robert Presnell Sr., Robert Riskin
Genres
Drama, Classics, Comedy
In Theaters
Jan 1, 1941 Wide
On DVD
Aug 30, 2005
Madacy Entertainment

Critic Reviews

  • Wesley Lovell, Oscar Guy

    Journalistic ethics are only a small aspect of the film, but the implications are long-ranging.

  • Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid

    Capra's films work because he believed with his whole heart in his cornball agendas.

  • Sean Axmaker, Parallax View

    It's pure Capra, run through with the tension between idealism and corruption...

  • John J. Puccio, Movie Metropolis

    ...once you see the movie, you understand why Frank Capra always appealed to the general movie-going public. (70th Anniversary Edition)

  • John J. Puccio, Movie Metropolis

    ...the political and social ramifications are just as topical today as they were seventy years ago.

Read all 11 critic reviews

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

  • Graham J


    Another Capra masterpiece that is still relevant today. Cooper and Brennan are great.

  • AJ V


    This is a remarkable movie, and a great performance from Stanwyck. I highly recommend this movie.

  • Michael G


    Fantastic! It started off as what I thought was going to be a screwball comedy but slowly shifted gears into a heartbreaking tale of beauty and political corruption. Gary Cooper's performance was a bit stiff and Barbara Stanwyck was as always amazing. The convention and final… More

  • Moe E


    Frank Capra's illustration of the media's use of an average shmoe with a simple message to manipulate the masses for political gain is as relevant today as it was when released. A very laid-back Gary Cooper is perfect in the title role, with the beautiful Barbara Stanwyck as… More

Cast

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