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"Moviegoers often assume Frank Capra's life resembled his beloved films: As in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington or It's a Wonderful Life, a man of the people faces tremendous odds and, by doing the right thing, triumphs. But as Joseph McBride reveals in this researched biography, the reality was far more complex, a true American tragedy. Using newly declassified U.S. government documents about Capra's response to being considered a possible "subversive" during the post-World War II Red Scare, McBride adds a final chapter to his unforgettable portrait of the man who gave us It Happened One Night, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, and Meet John Doe."--BOOK JACKET.

Discussion questions for Frank Capra

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  1. 1

    How does Joseph McBride’s portrayal of Frank Capra challenge or complicate the traditional "American Dream" narrative that dominates the director's most famous films?

  2. 2

    In what ways does the reality of Capra’s complex, ambitious personality contrast with the "everyman" persona of his cinematic heroes like Mr. Smith or George Bailey?

  3. 3

    Considering Capra’s immigrant background and his desperate desire for acceptance and success, how much of his filmmaking do you think was a form of self-invention or myth-making?

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